Name: Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon butter; 8 oz bowtie pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 pinch pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish)

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 13 reviews

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a bright, creamy hug in a bowl, Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic is absolutely one for your table. Imagine tender bowtie pasta tangled with juicy strips of chicken, all bathed in a dreamy lemon garlic sauce with just the right hint of Parmesan. Every bite has a sunny pop of citrus, the mellow comfort of cream, and the irresistible aroma of garlic. Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic is one of those minimal-effort, maximum-flavor meals you can whip up on a weeknight yet happily serve for guests—trust me, it never disappoints!

Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic comes together from a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, each making a big impact on flavor, texture, and that eye-catching, creamy finish. Here’s what goes into this showstopping pasta:

Chicken: Sliced chicken breasts bring protein and soak up the lemon garlic flavor beautifully.
Salt: Seasons each component and brings everything together; don’t skip it!
Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and rounds out the flavors in both chicken and sauce.
Garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor and ensures it’s pronounced in every bite.
Onion powder: Subtly boosts the savory base of the dish.
Italian seasoning: A blend of fragrant herbs that delivers depth and aroma.
Olive oil: For searing the chicken, giving it a perfect golden crust and rich flavor.
Fresh garlic (minced): The heart of the sauce—fresh garlic ups the flavor in a way nothing else can.
Lemon (zest and juice): Adds brightness and that zesty pop which defines Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic.
Butter: Adds silkiness to the sauce and helps the lemon and garlic infuse the chicken.
Bowtie pasta: Perfect for catching creamy sauce in every corner and crevice.
Heavy cream: The secret to a rich, luscious sauce that’s not too heavy.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Melts to create a cheesy, nutty backbone for the creamy sauce.
Chicken broth: Keeps the sauce light and flavorful without being overpowering.
Fresh parsley (chopped): For that pop of fresh, herby green on top!

How to Make Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this is your chance to season the pasta from the inside out. Drop in your bowtie pasta and cook until just al dente, according to package instructions. Be sure to scoop out a cup of pasta water before draining, as it’ll help you get the creamy sauce just the right consistency later on.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Generously season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This simple blend transforms plain chicken into something truly irresistible. In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm up the olive oil and lay the chicken strips in an even layer. Cook them for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through—the goal is juicy, flavorful pieces that will nestle beautifully into your pasta later!

Step 3: Infuse with Lemon Garlic Goodness

Turn down the heat to medium, toss the minced garlic into the skillet with the cooked chicken, and sauté for about a minute. Immediately after, scatter in the lemon zest and pour in the juice for a burst of fresh flavor. Add a tablespoon of butter and swirl until melted—this coats your chicken in that iconic Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic flavor that’s both cozy and vibrant. Turn off the heat and set the chicken aside while you get the sauce started.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Without washing the skillet (don’t lose those flavorful bits!), melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently while the mixture simmers for 2 to 3 minutes. This step gives you a silky base that’s ready and waiting for cheesy deliciousness.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Season

With the sauce gently bubbling, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly. It’ll melt right in, turning your sauce thick and glossy. Taste for salt and pepper—a pinch more here really pulls the flavors together and ensures every bite of Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic is layered, not flat.

Step 6: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Chicken

Add your cooked (and drained) bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss it all together so every piece is fully coated. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a little reserved pasta water until it’s just right. Now, fold in the lemon garlic chicken, making sure it mingles with every forkful of pasta and sauce. Stir gently to keep that creamy texture luscious.

Step 7: Plate and Garnish

Spoon generous helpings of pasta and chicken onto plates or into a big serving bowl. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a vibrant, herby finish, and offer plenty of extra Parmesan for anyone craving another cheesy flourish. Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic is best enjoyed right away, while everything is piping hot and at its creamy best.

How to Serve Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic

Garnishes

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a burst of green and extra aroma. A little extra lemon zest or a grating of fresh Parmesan on top also makes Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic feel like something truly special. Want even more flavor? Try a light drizzle of olive oil or a scatter of red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta is a star on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette is classic. Warm, crusty bread is another must—I love sopping up the extra sauce with a slice! For heartier meals, roasted vegetables or garlicky green beans are wonderful partners for Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve it family style in a big bowl surrounded by lemon wedges and herbs. You can also portion Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic into small ramekins or bake it lightly under a Parmesan crust for a fun twist. Individual servings look elegant piled into shallow pasta bowls with a bold lemon wheel perched on top for a restaurant-worthy look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with extra Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually meld even further with a bit of time, making leftovers especially delicious the next day.

Freezing

While the sauce is at its creamiest right after cooking, you can freeze leftover portions for up to a month. Keep in mind the cream might separate a bit upon thawing, but a gentle reheat and a splash of extra cream or broth can bring it back together.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce looks thick or dry, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up while warming. Stir frequently and heat until everything is just hot—overcooking can dry out the chicken or make the sauce too thick.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is perfect for holding onto the creamy lemon garlic sauce, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on cooking times.

How can I make Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic vegetarian?

It’s easy—simply omit the chicken and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Toss in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra substance and flavor.

Is there a way to lighten up the sauce?

For a lighter take, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. The sauce will be a bit less rich, but still beautifully creamy thanks to the Parmesan and broth.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic is a fantastic dish to scale up! Doubling (or even tripling) works perfectly—just be sure to use a big enough skillet or mixing bowl to handle all the goodness.

What’s the best way to zest and juice a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon before juicing. Lightly scrape just the yellow part for the brightest flavor—avoid the white pith, which can be bitter. Then, roll the lemon on the counter to release more juice before cutting and squeezing.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about the zesty creaminess and bold, fresh flavors of Bowtie Pasta Creamy Lemon Garlic—it’s comfort food with a spark of sunshine. I hope you give this recipe a try and bring its bright, creamy magic into your own kitchen soon!