Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the tangy freshness of lemon with the savory aroma of garlic, all wrapped in a luscious creamy sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The tender chicken, paired with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta and a velvety sauce, makes this dish a family favorite. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)

For the Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, deglazing the skillet to capture all the flavorful bits from the chicken.
3. Add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to avoid curdling.
4. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and return them to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
3. If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Serve the dish warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Tips for Success for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a huge difference in the flavor profile of the dish. Avoid bottled lemon juice.
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overdone.
• Creamy Sauce Consistency: Adding pasta water helps balance the sauce’s creaminess and ensures it clings well to the pasta.
• Season as You Go: Taste the sauce before combining it with the pasta and chicken to adjust the seasoning as needed.

Benefits of Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

1. Rich in Flavor: The tangy lemon and garlic blend with the creaminess of the sauce, creating a balanced and delightful taste.
2. Quick Preparation: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
3. Nutritional Value: The dish provides protein from chicken, carbohydrates from pasta, and essential vitamins from the lemon and parsley.
4. Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a quick and elegant dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. Its creamy, zesty, and garlicky flavors appeal to all palates, making it a go-to recipe for both busy weeknights and special occasions. By following these detailed steps and incorporating the provided tips, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Bon appétit!

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