A zesty, creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a bright lemon garlic sauce.

If you’re craving a comforting yet fresh pasta dinner, this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is your answer. It’s a delicious one-pan meal that blends zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, rich butter, and creamy Parmesan into a pasta dish that tastes like a restaurant meal made at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is:

• Bright & Savory: Lemon and garlic balance the richness of butter and cream.
• Creamy Comfort: Parmesan sauce coats every bowtie pasta piece.
• One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Protein-Packed: Chicken adds heartiness and makes it a complete meal.
• Versatile: Serve alone or with a side salad or garlic bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), pounded to even thickness
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F/75°C).
Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter.
Add garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
Add chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Bring to a simmer and scrape browned bits from the pan.
Reduce heat, add heavy cream and remaining butter.
Cook 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens.
Whisk in Parmesan until smooth. Season to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return chicken to the pan.
Add pasta and toss to coat in sauce.
Sprinkle with parsley.

Step 5: Serve

Slice chicken and serve over pasta.
Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Why This Recipe Works

• Lemon & Butter Balance: The citrus cuts through the richness for a perfect flavor profile.
• Creamy Sauce: Heavy cream and Parmesan create a silky, luxurious coating.
• One-Pan Flavor: Chicken drippings add extra depth to the sauce.

Variations to Try

• Add Veggies: Spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Swap Proteins: Shrimp, scallops, or sausage.
• Gluten-Free: Use GF pasta and broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.
• Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella or fontina.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh lemon for bright flavor.
• Don’t overcook chicken; finish cooking in sauce for juiciness.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently with broth or cream to loosen sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with:

• Garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables
• Crisp green salad
• White wine or sparkling water

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add more flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly.

2. Can I make this dish without cream?

Yes. You can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.

3. Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work well.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Cook everything, store in the fridge, and reheat gently with a splash of broth.

5. Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it in portions. Reheat slowly to prevent separation.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a bright, fresh twist. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and tangy lemon flavor, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.