Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Introduction

I first made this dish for my family one Sunday afternoon, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of tender chicken, the zesty brightness of lemon, and the creamy richness of the sauce had everyone asking for seconds. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. The chicken stays juicy, and the pasta is coated in a smooth, velvety sauce that’s just the right balance of savory and tangy. My family now requests it on a regular basis, and I love how it can be made in under an hour with simple ingredients. If you’re looking for a comforting yet fresh meal to add to your rotation, Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta will not disappoint!

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Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

1. Quick and Easy
   With a prep time of only 15 minutes and a total cook time of under 40 minutes, this recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal.
2. Balanced Flavors
   The creamy sauce made with heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest creates a rich and tangy base that complements the tender chicken and pasta beautifully. The hint of garlic and Italian seasoning elevates the dish to new heights.
3. Versatile and Customizable
   You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add extra vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey, or even use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
4. Family-Friendly
   With its creamy texture and mild flavors, this dish is perfect for both kids and adults. It’s also a great way to introduce your family to the zesty taste of lemon without overwhelming their taste buds.
5. Perfect for Leftovers
   If you have any leftovers, the dish keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated for lunch or dinner the next day. The flavors continue to meld together, making it even more delicious after a night in the fridge.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta:

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 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
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sauté the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning will enhance the chicken’s natural flavors. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep it warm.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water to add to the sauce later if needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet where the chicken was cooked, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn. Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any bits of chicken and garlic stuck to the pan, as this will add a ton of flavor to your sauce. Let the broth simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly before adding the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Cheese

Once the cream is in the skillet, stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, making it even creamier and more flavorful.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce until it is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more pasta water to loosen it up and ensure all the pasta is covered in the sauce.

Step 6: Slice the Chicken and Combine

While the pasta is soaking up the sauce, slice the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add the sliced chicken to the skillet with the pasta and toss everything gently to combine. The warm chicken will release its juices, adding more flavor to the pasta.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, zesty flavors of this delightful dish!

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approx. 550-600 kcal (depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used)

(Note: The calorie count is an estimate and may vary depending on the exact measurements and specific products used.)

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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How to Serve

• Classic Style: Serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta in individual bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley.
• Pair with a Salad: Serve with a light, crisp green salad or a Caesar salad to balance out the richness of the pasta.
• Add Garlic Bread: For an extra treat, serve the pasta with warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Vegetable Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a complete meal.
• For Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or for special occasions. Consider serving it with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, to complement the creamy, zesty flavors.

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Additional Tips

1. Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, always have some of the reserved pasta water on hand. Adding it gradually will help you reach the perfect creamy texture without making it too runny.
2. Add More Veggies: To boost the nutritional value, try adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the skillet. They’ll complement the flavors and add more color to the dish.
3. Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.
4. Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in lemon juice, olive oil, and Italian seasoning for an hour before cooking. This adds a deeper, zesty flavor to the chicken.
5. Make it Gluten-Free: If you prefer gluten-free pasta, simply swap the bowtie pasta for a gluten-free version, and the dish will be just as delicious.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe! Just make sure they’re cooked through, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Definitely! Feel free to substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or spaghetti if you prefer.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the sauce and pasta in advance, then reheat everything and add the chicken just before serving.
4. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
   Yes, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the sauce.
5. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
   Vegetable broth or water with a bit of extra seasoning can also be used as a substitute for chicken broth.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
   The pasta can be frozen, but the creamy sauce may change texture when reheated. It’s best to store the components separately if you plan to freeze them.
7. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
   You can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with grilled or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
8. Can I add more lemon flavor?
   If you love lemon, feel free to add extra lemon juice or zest to the sauce for a more pronounced citrus flavor.
9. What wine pairs best with this dish?
   A white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy and citrusy notes of the dish beautifully.
10. Can I add more spices to the sauce?
    Yes, you can add more spices like crushed red pepper flakes for heat or fresh basil for added freshness.

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Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is the perfect balance of comfort food and freshness. The creamy, tangy sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and pasta, creating a dish that will become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have

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