The Best Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Intro
If you’re craving a bright, flavorful dinner that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying, look no further than lemon garlic chicken bowtie pasta. This dish brings together juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic in a light, savory sauce that clings perfectly to tender bowtie pasta—also known as farfalle. It’s a delicious way to bring restaurant-style flavor to your kitchen without the time or cost of dining out.
Not only does this pasta feel elevated, but it also comes together with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re trying to get dinner on the table fast or looking for a comforting meal with a fresh twist, this is your new go-to. The combination of lemon and garlic adds brightness to the savory chicken and cheese, creating a perfect balance in every bite.
This recipe also lends itself beautifully to customization. You can keep it light with just broth and lemon, or make it creamy with a touch of heavy cream. For those exploring weeknight pasta recipes, this one offers a flexible base. You can even draw inspiration from this creamy lemon chicken pasta for a richer version, or take cues from classic chicken as food dishes to vary the protein.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—one pan, one pot, and dinner is done. Whether you’re prepping lunches or making a quick dinner for the family, this lemon garlic chicken bowtie pasta is a comforting, vibrant meal you’ll want to save and repeat.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta
There are plenty of chicken pasta recipes, but this one stands out for its balance of flavor, simplicity, and versatility. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making something special for yourself, here’s why this lemon garlic chicken bowtie pasta deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:
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Fresh and vibrant: The lemon zest and juice cut through the richness of the chicken and cheese, delivering a bright and refreshing finish. This makes it an ideal choice for warmer seasons or when you want something light but filling.
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Quick and easy: With only two cooking steps—boil the pasta and cook the chicken—it’s a breeze to make on a weeknight. You can even simplify further by prepping the chicken ahead using basic meal preparation strategies.
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Customizable: You can keep it light and zesty, or go for a creamy lemon chicken pasta version with added cream and Parmesan. For inspiration, explore more lemon pasta recipe ideas that use similar ingredients in different ways.
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Kid-friendly and family-approved: The bowtie pasta shape is fun for kids and holds sauce well, while the flavor is mild enough to please even picky eaters. Add crumbled turkey bacon or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan to boost appeal.
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Perfect for leftovers: The dish reheats well, and the sauce continues to absorb into the pasta, making it even more flavorful the next day. Pack it in lunchboxes or prep a double batch using tips from pasta meal prep ideas.
Ingredients Breakdown + Substitution Tips
The beauty of lemon garlic chicken bowtie pasta lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Each ingredient plays a distinct role in flavor, texture, and balance. Here’s a complete breakdown with smart substitutions and helpful tips for customizing the dish.
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Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta – 12 oz:
Bowtie pasta is ideal because its ridges and folds hold onto the lemon garlic sauce well. You can substitute with penne, rotini, or any short pasta if needed. For a lighter version, try whole wheat or gluten-free options. Check out this guide on cooking pasta al dente to ensure your noodles have the perfect bite. -
Chicken Breast – 1 lb, diced:
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean protein. You can also use boneless thighs for more flavor or even shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. To understand more about preparing poultry safely, visit this chicken as food reference. -
Olive Oil – 2 tbsp:
Used for cooking the chicken and garlic. You can swap with avocado oil or butter depending on your flavor preferences. -
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced:
Essential for building aromatic depth. Use freshly minced garlic—avoid jarred if possible. Sauté just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. -
Italian Seasoning – 1 tsp:
A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. You can make your own mix or adjust to your taste. -
Paprika – ½ tsp:
Adds a touch of warmth and color. Use smoked paprika for a slightly bolder flavor. -
Salt & Pepper – to taste:
Season the chicken generously to enhance its flavor before combining with the sauce. -
Zest of 1 Lemon:
Adds bright, citrusy aroma. Always zest before juicing. Learn more about zest and lemon uses in this lemon overview. -
Juice of 1 Large Lemon:
Fresh lemon juice brings a bold tang to the sauce. You can adjust the amount to taste or combine with lime for a twist. -
Chicken Broth – ½ cup:
Used for deglazing and building the base of the sauce. Substitute with white wine for a more sophisticated flavor, or use veggie broth for a lighter option. -
Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, grated:
Adds salty, umami depth to the sauce. Use freshly grated cheese for better melting. Learn about types of Parmesan cheese if you want to explore alternatives like Pecorino Romano. -
Heavy Cream – ¼ cup (optional):
For a creamy version, this creates a silky texture. You can substitute with half-and-half, or for a lighter option, stir in Greek yogurt after removing from heat. -
Chopped Fresh Parsley – 2 tbsp (for garnish):
Brings freshness and color. You can substitute with basil or arugula for a peppery touch. -
Turkey Bacon – 2 strips, crumbled (optional):
Adds a salty, smoky crunch. Try real bacon or a vegetarian version if preferred.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making lemon garlic chicken bowtie pasta is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these clear steps to create a balanced, flavorful meal that feels gourmet but takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add 12 oz of bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions (usually 10–11 minutes).
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Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Cook the Chicken
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In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Add 1 lb of diced chicken breast, seasoned with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Sear for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally to brown all sides evenly.
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If using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, reduce the cook time accordingly.
Add Garlic and Deglaze the Pan
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Add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet.
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Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant—avoid browning, which can make garlic taste bitter.
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Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth and the juice of 1 large lemon. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom to incorporate flavor into the sauce.
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Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. You can also refer to this helpful guide on cooking with chicken as food for more poultry tips.
Build the Sauce
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Stir in the zest of 1 lemon, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and ¼ cup of heavy cream (optional).
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Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring until it thickens slightly.
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Add a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.
Combine with Pasta and Finish
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Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated.
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Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
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Stir in crumbled turkey bacon if using, or skip for a lighter dish.
Garnish and Serve
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Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top.
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Serve warm, optionally with extra lemon zest or Parmesan for added brightness and richness.
Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Perfecting this lemon garlic chicken bowtie pasta comes down to the small details. These simple tips can make a big difference in flavor, texture, and consistency:
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Use fresh lemon zest and juice: Bottled juice won’t deliver the same brightness. Learn how to use lemon zest effectively by zesting before juicing.
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Avoid overcooking the garlic: Add it after the chicken is mostly done, and sauté for just 30–60 seconds.
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Simmer cream gently: If using cream, add it after the broth and keep the heat at medium-low to avoid curdling.
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Reserve pasta water: A splash can help emulsify the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
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Finish with fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil adds color and a fresh burst to every bite.
Flavor Variations & Add-ins
This lemon garlic chicken pasta is easily adaptable to your preferences. Try these delicious variations:
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Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil for heat.
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Veggie Boost: Stir in fresh spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli before tossing with the pasta.
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Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or leftover grilled salmon.
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Bacon Upgrade: Use crispy turkey or pork bacon for a smoky finish.
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Creamy Twist: Add extra Parmesan and cream for a richer sauce inspired by creamy lemon chicken pasta.
Serving Suggestions & Side Dishes
To round out your meal, pair this dish with fresh, simple sides that enhance its flavors:
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Garlic Bread or Focaccia: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
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Crisp Green Salad: A light vinaigrette with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers balances the richness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers make excellent partners for the pasta.
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Beverage Pairings: Serve with lemon sparkling water, white wine, or iced green tea.
How to Store & Reheat
Leftovers of lemon garlic chicken bowtie pasta store well and make a great lunch or second dinner. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:
Refrigeration:
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing:
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Best frozen without the cream. Place in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
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To freeze with cream, allow the pasta to cool completely and freeze in single portions for best results.
Reheating Tips:
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Add a splash of broth, water, or cream before reheating to refresh the sauce.
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Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
Make-Ahead Tips & Meal Prep Options
This recipe is ideal for meal planning and batch cooking. Here’s how to simplify your week with it:
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Prep Chicken Early: Cook and season chicken in advance. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Make Sauce Separately: Mix the lemon, garlic, and broth into a sauce and store in a jar. Add fresh herbs and cheese before serving.
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Portion for Lunches: Divide into containers with reheating instructions for quick grab-and-go meals.
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Reheat Like a Pro: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of parsley when reheating to revive flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs add more flavor and moisture. Just trim the fat and cook thoroughly before adding the lemon sauce.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Skip the cream and cheese or use dairy-free versions. Try a splash of unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream for a lighter finish.
What if I don’t have bowtie pasta?
No problem—use penne, rotini, or fusilli. The sauce clings well to any short pasta with ridges or curves.
Can I add vegetables to the pasta?
Yes, it’s a great way to boost nutrients. Stir in spinach, zucchini, or peas just before tossing everything together.
Why is my garlic bitter?
Overcooked garlic can turn bitter quickly. Sauté it for just 30–60 seconds and avoid high heat. More tips on how to properly cook garlic can be found in general cooking guides.
The Best Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Description
This lemon garlic chicken bowtie pasta is a quick and vibrant one-pan dinner made with juicy chicken, garlic, fresh lemon juice, and Parmesan tossed with tender bowtie pasta. Light yet satisfying, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or any time you crave a zesty twist on classic pasta. Customize it with cream, turkey bacon, or veggies to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- ½ cup chicken broth (instead of wine)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: 2 strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Broth & Lemon: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape up any bits stuck to the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Lemon Zest & Cream (optional): Stir in lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using). Let it simmer until sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Add Turkey Bacon (optional): Top with crumbled turkey bacon if using.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Notes
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Zest the lemon before juicing to capture all its essential oils.
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For a lighter version, skip the cream and use extra broth.
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Store leftovers in single portions to make reheating easier.
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Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
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Always use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
