Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s quick to prepare and full of flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special family meal.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a favorite because it’s easy and comforting. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic really make the chicken shine, and the creamy pasta is like a warm hug on your plate. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, so it’s great for those busy days!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
- Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce in the skillet.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Serve the creamy pasta topped with sliced chicken and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Serve this dish hot for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This pasta dish is sure to impress your family and friends!
How to Store Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice if you want a more or less tangy flavor.
- Feel free to add vegetables, like spinach or broccoli, to the pasta for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist. You can also use other types of pasta if you prefer.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like, but bowtie pasta (farfalle) is fun for this recipe.
Q: Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
A: You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: It’s best to consume the dish fresh, but if you do freeze it, ensure to separate the chicken from the pasta and sauce for better quality when reheating.