Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Bow Tie Pasta: Bright, Creamy, and Irresistibly Bold 🍝🍋
This lemon pepper pasta is bold, zesty, and impossible to put down — juicy seared chicken thighs coated in a garlic-lemon pepper cream sauce, tossed with farfalle pasta and tender broccoli.
This lemon pepper pasta is bold, zesty, and impossible to put down — juicy seared chicken thighs coated in a garlic-lemon pepper cream sauce, tossed with farfalle pasta and tender broccoli. It’s comfort food with a citrusy punch and meal prep magic built in.
Lemon pepper seasoning brings tang and savoriness in one punch, while garlic and Parmesan add rich depth. With perfectly cooked broccoli stirred in at the end for freshness, every bite feels vibrant, filling, and satisfying.
Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Cuisine: American, Fusion
Course: Main Dish
Difficulty: Easy
Ideal for: High-Protein Meal Prep, Comfort Food Lovers
Calories: 525 kcal per serving | Protein: 44g | Carbs: 45g | Fats: 19g
Estimated Cost per Serving: $4.65
Ingredients
For the Chicken
3 lbs (1.36 kg) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon (15 mL) avocado oil
1 tablespoon (6 g) garlic powder
1 tablespoon (6 g) onion powder
1 tablespoon (7 g) lemon pepper seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
1 lb (454 g) farfalle (bow tie) pasta
3 cups (270 g) small broccoli florets, blanched
For the Lemon Pepper Cream Sauce
1 tablespoon (15 mL) avocado oil or butter
1 tablespoon (9 g) minced garlic
¾ cup (180 mL) fat-free half and half
½ cup (120 g) low-fat cream cheese
1 cup (112 g) shredded low-fat mozzarella
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan
½ cup (120 mL) reserved pasta water (or more depending on desired thickness)
1 tablespoon (7 g) lemon pepper seasoning (or more to taste)
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon extract
Instructions
Season and Sear the Chicken: Season chicken thighs on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper, salt, and black pepper. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches, 5–6 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Remove and let rest.
Cook the Pasta & Broccoli: Boil farfalle in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup (120 mL) of pasta water, then drain. Blanch broccoli florets for 2 minutes. Set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet (or fresh pot if your skillet isn’t big enough for the pasta and chicken to be added) lower heat to medium and add avocado oil or butter. Sauté minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add half and half, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in lemon juice, zest, lemon extract if using and lemon pepper seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Slice Chicken: Slice seared chicken into strips. Add chicken, cookxned farfalle, and blanched broccoli to the sauce. Toss everything until well coated.
Serve or Store: Serve hot or let cool slightly before portioning into containers. Store for meal prep.
Key Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Pasta
Use real zest and juice: Fresh lemon adds brightness that bottled can’t match.
Reserve pasta water: It makes the sauce creamy without being heavy.
Sear thighs whole: Lock in moisture and flavor before slicing.
Don’t overcook broccoli: Blanch briefly so it stays vibrant and crisp.
Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle
Protein-forward: Chicken thighs offer a juicy, flavorful protein source.
Lighter cream base: Fat-free half and half and reduced-fat cheeses create a creamy sauce without the excess fat.
Veggie boost: Broccoli adds fiber, vitamin C, and texture.
Low-sodium swaps: Use low-sodium cheese and seasoning if needed.
Meal Prepping Variation Ideas
Swap pasta shapes: Try penne or rotini if you don’t have farfalle.
Add heat: Toss in red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne.
Try different greens: Use spinach, kale, or asparagus in place of broccoli.
Make it a bake: Pour everything into a dish, top with cheese, and broil for a bubbly finish.
Pairing Options
Roasted garlic bread: For soaking up every bit of sauce.
Simple arugula salad: A peppery, lemony contrast to the richness.
Crispy Brussels sprouts: Add a roasted veggie for balance.
Sparkling water with lemon: A refreshing sip to match the citrus notes.
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Freeze fully assembled portions for up to 6 months.
Reheat gently: Add a splash of water and cover with a damp paper towel before microwaving to maintain moisture and creaminess.
🛒 Grocery List for Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Bow Tie Pasta
Protein & Dairy
☐ 3 lbs (1.36 kg) chicken thighs
☐ ¾ cup (180 mL) fat-free half and half
☐ ½ cup (120 g) low-fat cream cheese
☐ 1 cup (112 g) low-fat shredded mozzarella
☐ Grated Parmesan
Produce
☐ 3 cups (270 g) small broccoli florets
☐ Minced garlic
☐ 1 lemon
Pantry & Staples
☐ 1 lb (454 g) farfalle pasta
☐ Avocado oil
☐ Lemon pepper seasoning
☐ Garlic powder
☐ Onion powder
☐ Salt and pepper
☐ Lemon extract (optional)