Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce:
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra to taste)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
½ cup reserved pasta water
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Extra Parmesan
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan, cream cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Toss cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce until well coated.
Add reserved pasta water if sauce needs thinning.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
Plate creamy pasta, top with lemon garlic chicken, garnish with parsley, extra Parmesan, and a lemon wedge.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 20 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4
⚡ Calories per Serving: ~800 kcal