Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

If you’re searching for a dish that’s quick, creamy, and bursting with bright lemony flavor, this Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is exactly what you need. Tender, juicy chicken bites meet perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, garlicky lemon cream sauce. This meal is both comforting and refreshing—a rare combination that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy solo meal, this recipe delivers maximum flavor in just 25 minutes. It’s easy enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

Here’s what makes this dish irresistible:

• Quick & Simple: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
• Zesty & Creamy: Lemon juice and zest brighten the rich, creamy sauce.
• Juicy Chicken: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and stay tender.
• Family-Friendly: Mildly seasoned yet flavorful, loved by kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Can easily be customized with vegetables, extra spices, or alternative pasta.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 6 and uses simple ingredients you likely have in your pantry.

Protein:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces

Pasta:

• 1 pound bowtie pasta

Sauce & Flavor Base:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried Italian herbs

Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Tip: Fresh parsley and lemon zest enhance the visual appeal and freshness of the dish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this dish easily, gather the following:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Tongs or slotted spoon for stirring chicken
• Grater for Parmesan cheese
• Spoon or spatula for tossing pasta

Having everything prepared ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these instructions for perfectly creamy, zesty chicken pasta.

1. Cook the Bowtie Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: Reserve a small splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

2. Prepare the Chicken

1. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces and cook 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Chef Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.

3. Build the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly. Avoid burning.
3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer.

The garlic-infused cream forms the base of a rich, aromatic sauce.

4. Add Flavorings

1. Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs.
2. Simmer for about 5 minutes, until the sauce slightly thickens.

The lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, cutting through the richness of the cream and butter.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet.
2. Stir to coat evenly with the creamy lemon garlic sauce.

This step allows the chicken to soak up all the flavorful sauce.

6. Add the Pasta

1. Add cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet.
2. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
3. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top.

Tip: The olive oil adds a silky finish and enhances the flavor of the sauce.

7. Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness.
2. Serve immediately while warm.

Serving Suggestion: Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed spinach for extra nutrients.
• Spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika adds warmth.
• Protein Swap: Shrimp or turkey breast cubes work beautifully in place of chicken.
• Cheese: Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for fewer calories.

Flavor Profile

• Sauce: Creamy, garlicky, tangy with a bright lemon finish.
• Chicken: Juicy and tender with subtle herb notes.
• Pasta: Al dente bowtie pasta absorbs the sauce beautifully.

Suggested Side Dishes: A crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Nutritional Overview

Approximate nutrition per serving (6 servings total):

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fat: 28g (Saturated: 14g)
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 600mg

This meal is filling, protein-rich, and balanced with both carbs and fats, making it perfect for dinner.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Chicken: Can be cooked ahead and stored in the fridge; reheat in the sauce.
• Pasta: Cook al dente and store separately; toss with sauce when ready to serve.
• Sauce: Can be prepped in advance and gently reheated. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Cook according to package instructions and ensure al dente texture.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or artichoke hearts.

3. How can I make it more lemony?
Add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash more lemon juice before serving.

4. Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Yes, but adjust the amount to taste, as pre-minced garlic may be less pungent.

5. How long will leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Step	Time	Notes
Cook pasta	8–10 min	Al dente
Cook chicken	5–7 min	Medium-high heat
Prepare sauce	5 min	Simmer with garlic and cream
Combine chicken & pasta	3 min	Coat in sauce
Garnish & serve	1 min	Parsley for freshness
Total	25 min	Ready to enjoy

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on wide plates or shallow bowls for easy mixing.
• Garnish with additional parsley or a light sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Pair with roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a light salad.

Recipe Variations

1. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Bowtie Pasta: Swap chicken for shrimp and cook similarly.
2. Creamy Veggie Bowtie Pasta: Add broccoli, mushrooms, and peas to the sauce.
3. Spicy Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
4. Low-Fat Version: Use half-and-half and skip extra butter for a lighter dish.

Ingredient Spotlight

Lemon

• Flavor: Adds brightness, acidity, and freshness.
• Tip: Use both juice and zest for maximum citrus flavor.

Garlic

• Flavor: Provides aromatic depth and warmth.
• Tip: Sauté carefully to avoid burning and bitterness.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking chicken to ensure even browning.
• Gradually add Parmesan for a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Toss pasta just before serving to maintain a creamy texture.
• Serve immediately for best flavor and appearance.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Chicken: Store separately for up to 1 day; freeze if needed.
• Pasta: Can be cooked ahead; store separately for best texture.
• Sauce: Refrigerate up to 2 days; avoid freezing with pasta to prevent texture changes.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	550 kcal	Balanced portion
Protein	34g	Chicken & cheese
Carbs	44g	Bowtie pasta
Fat	28g	Cream & butter
Saturated Fat	14g	Rich and creamy
Fiber	2g	Minimal
Cholesterol	110mg	From chicken and cream
Sodium	600mg	Seasonings & broth

Expanded Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites with Creamy Bowtie Pasta recipe is comfort food elevated with zesty lemon and garlicky creaminess. The tender chicken bites, al dente bowtie pasta, and rich sauce come together in perfect harmony for a dish that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a casual dinner party, or a cozy meal for yourself, this pasta delivers flavor, texture, and satisfaction in every bite. Garnish with parsley, drizzle with olive oil, and serve immediately to enjoy its full, creamy glory.

Treat yourself to this lemony, garlicky indulgence—you’ll be making it again and again.

Print