A vibrant and comforting dish that combines zesty lemon garlic chicken with rich, creamy pasta. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering an irresistible blend of tangy, savory, and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Creamy Lemon Sauce:
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
For the Pasta:
8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Directions
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the skillet, place it on a cutting board, and let it rest before slicing into thin strips.
Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried Italian seasoning. Mix well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Cook the Pasta:
While the sauce simmers, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water.
Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case the sauce needs loosening.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce.
Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is rich and smooth.
Assemble and Serve:
Arrange the pasta on serving plates and top each portion with sliced chicken.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips for Recipe Success
Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F/75°C).
Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture, as it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Lemon Zest: Grate only the yellow part of the lemon; avoid the white pith, which can be bitter.
Why This Recipe Works
The zesty lemon enhances the creamy sauce, cutting through its richness and adding brightness. The garlic complements the flavors perfectly, while the Parmesan cheese creates a velvety texture that coats the bowtie pasta beautifully. Together with tender chicken and fresh parsley, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
A crisp side salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
Garlic bread or a warm baguette.
A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 530
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 20g
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a foolproof crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to earn rave reviews!