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Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is a bright, creamy, and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, bow tie pasta, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, easy lunch ideas for work, or cold lunch ideas, this recipe is simple to prepare and versatile. Enjoy it as creamy lemon garlic pasta, lemon butter chicken pasta, or even a light lemon garlic chicken alfredo.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups bow tie pasta or preferred pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk for lighter version
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  5. Return cooked chicken to the skillet, then toss in the cooked bow tie pasta. Mix until everything is evenly coated in sauce.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum flavor.
Bow tie pasta works perfectly, but penne or fettuccine are good alternatives.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream.
Add extra garlic or red pepper flakes for a more intense flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream.