There’s something ridiculously comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta, especially when it’s loaded with garlicky chicken and a citrusy zing. This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is the kind of dish that sneaks up on you—simple, yes, but bold in all the right ways. The way the lemon cuts through the richness of the cream, and that hint of garlic in every bite? It just works. I started making this on weeknights when I didn’t want to fuss but still wanted something that tasted like a little effort was made. Now it’s on repeat, because the combo of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta that clings to every drop is just too good to pass up. It also reheats like a dream, so next-day lunches are a win too. This is one of those ‘keep the ingredients in the pantry’ kinds of meals. If you’ve got chicken, pasta, and a lemon, you’re basically halfway there. No need to be a chef—just a fan of big flavor with minimal drama.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe
3) Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
4) How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
5) Tips for Making Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
6) Making Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
8) Try these Dinners next!
9) Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

Quick dinner option packed with bold, fresh flavors
Perfect balance of creamy texture with lemony brightness
Uses simple pantry ingredients and takes just over 30 minutes
Great for meal prep and makes delicious leftovers

2) Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

This creamy lemon garlic chicken pasta came to life during one of those “what can I make fast” moments. I had chicken, cream, some garlic cloves staring at me, and half a box of bowties from pasta night. What happened next was a little magic.

The chicken stirfry easy recipe I once relied on got a creamy makeover here, and now it’s a go-to. We’re talking golden seared chicken, bowtie pasta soaking up lemony cream sauce, and that hit of garlic that makes everything feel warmer. It’s not showy. It’s just good.

And listen, if you’ve got picky eaters or guests to impress, this dish does the job. It’s humble, hearty, and bright. Plus, you only need one pan for the sauce. Pair it with a green salad or just eat it straight from the bowl while standing at the stove—I won’t judge.

3) Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Chicken breasts: Use boneless and skinless for easy slicing and even cooking. Cut them into bite-sized pieces so they cook fast and stay juicy.

Olive oil: A little splash in the pan gets the sear going and brings the garlic to life.

Garlic: Mince it fresh. Trust me, the flavor boost is worth the extra minute. That warm aroma while it sizzles? Chef’s kiss.

Lemon: Zest and juice both. The zest wakes up the cream, and the juice balances the richness. One lemon goes a long way here.

Chicken broth: This gives the sauce depth without making it heavy. I keep a jar of the paste version in the fridge—game-changer.

Heavy cream: This turns your simple stirfry base into a creamy bowl of comfort. Go full fat—it’s dinner, not a diet plan.

Parmesan: Shred it yourself if you can. It melts better and has more flavor than the bagged stuff. I keep a wedge in the freezer just for recipes like this.

Bowtie pasta: Also known as farfalle. It’s cute, it holds sauce like a champ, and it gives a fun texture to each bite.

Salt and pepper: Don’t skip seasoning. A pinch at the start and another before serving makes a world of difference.

Fresh parsley: Optional, but worth it for color and that little hit of green freshness on top.

4) How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Start by boiling your bowtie pasta. Salt the water like the sea. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add your chicken, season well, and cook until golden and no longer pink inside.

Step 3: Add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Don’t walk away. Burned garlic is no one’s friend.

Step 4: Pour in the lemon juice, zest, and chicken broth. Stir and let it bubble for 2 minutes. This is where the flavor builds.

Step 5: Reduce the heat. Stir in the cream and Parmesan. Keep stirring. Let the sauce thicken just enough to coat a spoon.

Step 6: Add your cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss gently until every bowtie is covered in creamy goodness.

Step 7: Taste. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with parsley and serve right away—or eat it straight from the pan. I get it.

5) Tips for Making Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Let the pasta cool slightly before tossing it in the sauce. It holds better and doesn’t thin the cream.

If you’re short on cream, try a mix of milk and a spoon of cream cheese. It’s not perfect, but it works when you’re in a pinch.

Want more greens? Add spinach in the last two minutes. It wilts fast and blends in beautifully.

6) Making Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Ahead of Time

Yes, you can make this ahead. I usually prep the chicken and pasta the night before, store them separately, and mix them with the sauce when ready.

If you make the full dish ahead, store it in an airtight container. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to bring the creaminess back.

The lemon flavor might mellow slightly overnight, but it still tastes fresh and cozy the next day. A bonus, not a flaw.

7) Storing Leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days. This makes it a solid pick for weekly meal prep.

Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of broth or water to help the sauce stay smooth and not clump up.

If you freeze it, be warned: cream sauces can separate. It’ll still taste fine, but the texture might shift. I usually just eat it fresh or refrigerated.

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9) Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta