Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a delightful, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and a creamy sauce all served over perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. The balance of citrus and garlic creates a deliciously tangy flavor, while the creamy sauce brings comfort and richness to the dish. This meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something simple yet delicious.

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra lemon flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• Salt, for the pasta water
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, dried oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest. After a few minutes, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using). Stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. Add the sliced chicken to the pasta and toss to combine, ensuring everything is coated in the creamy lemon garlic sauce.

5. Serve and Garnish:

Serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta:

• Chicken: For an extra juicy chicken, you can marinate the chicken breasts for 30 minutes to an hour in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
• Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente for the perfect texture. If you overcook the pasta, it may become too soft when combined with the sauce.
• Extra Creaminess: If you like a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or use half-and-half instead.
• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or season the chicken with a bit of cayenne pepper.

Health Benefits:

• Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein, chicken breast is low in fat and rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium.
• Lemon: Rich in vitamin C, lemons help support the immune system and provide antioxidants that combat inflammation.
• Garlic: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, as well as its ability to improve heart health and reduce blood pressure.
• Parmesan Cheese: While rich in flavor, Parmesan provides calcium and protein, helping support bone health.

Conclusion:

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a fantastic dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with the freshness of lemon and the savory taste of garlic. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and pasta, making this dish a comfort food classic that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist.

Enjoy your meal and share it with your loved ones for a cozy and satisfying experience!