Name: Lemon Chicken Bowties
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle); 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: extra Parmesan for serving

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Lemon Chicken Bowties is a vibrant and creamy pasta dish that brings together tender strips of chicken breast, farfalle (bowtie) pasta, and a bright lemon-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a simple, flavorful one-skillet meal that’s perfect for spring and summer, or anytime you crave a zesty, comforting dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is ideal for busy weeknights and casual entertaining alike. It’s quick to prepare, packed with fresh lemon flavor, and balanced by the richness of cream and Parmesan cheese. The farfalle pasta holds the sauce beautifully, and the seared chicken adds satisfying protein to round out the meal. With minimal prep and familiar ingredients, this recipe is as approachable as it is elegant.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

bowtie pasta (farfalle)
boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips
olive oil
butter
garlic, minced
heavy cream
lemon zest
lemon juice
grated Parmesan cheese
salt and pepper
Italian seasoning
fresh parsley (for garnish)
optional: extra Parmesan cheese for serving

directions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream along with the lemon zest and juice. Stir and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 480 kcal

Variations

Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, asparagus, or peas for added color and nutrition.
Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
Lighter Sauce: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter finish.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing due to the cream-based sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. They offer a slightly richer flavor and remain tender when cooked.

What type of cream should I use?

Heavy cream is ideal for a rich, velvety sauce. Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option, but avoid milk as it may curdle with lemon juice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time, then combine and reheat just before serving.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Add lemon juice after the cream has warmed slightly and avoid boiling the sauce. Stir gently to combine.

What pasta shapes can I substitute?

Penne, rotini, or fusilli are good alternatives if farfalle is unavailable.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken can be added at the end to warm through.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the creamy lemon flavor is mild and usually appealing to kids, especially with cheese on top.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and results in a smoother sauce, but pre-shredded can be used if needed.

What should I serve with this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread makes the perfect complement to this creamy, zesty pasta.

Conclusion

Lemon Chicken Bowties is a refreshing take on creamy pasta that combines the richness of a Parmesan sauce with the brightness of lemon and the heartiness of seasoned chicken. Easy to make and elegant enough for entertaining, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, spring gatherings, or anytime you want a flavorful, satisfying meal without the fuss.

Lemon Chicken Bowties

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Mari
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Lemon Chicken Bowties is a bright and creamy pasta dish featuring tender strips of chicken, bowtie (farfalle) pasta, and a zesty lemon-Parmesan sauce. This easy, one-skillet meal is packed with flavor, making it the perfect choice for quick weeknight dinners or light, spring-inspired comfort food.

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add chicken to skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add Parmesan and stir until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
Return chicken and pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.