Indulge in Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Indulging in the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and garlic combined with tender chicken will transport your taste buds straight to a sunlit kitchen. This recipe, Indulge in Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta, is a delightful weeknight meal that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The combination of creamy pasta and the refreshing zing of lemon creates a balanced dish that is sure to please anyone at the table.

This dish is perfect for families looking for a quick dinner option or for anyone craving a comforting meal. It’s also a fantastic choice for meal prepping, as the creamy pasta can be stored in the fridge for later enjoyment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy bowtie pasta envelops the chicken in a luscious sauce.
• Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish with vibrant flavor.
• Quick cook time makes it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Easy to adjust seasoning for customized taste.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:

For the Chicken

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for searing the chicken
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 1 whole lemon, juice and zest
• 1 cup heavy cream, base of the sauce
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces farfalle pasta (can substitute with whole wheat or spinach pasta)
• 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste

For the Garnish

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Note: Fresh parsley adds a delightful pop of color and flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken can be replaced with shrimp.
• Heavy cream is swappable with half-and-half.
• Farfalle can be replaced with any short pasta.
• Parmesan can be exchanged for pecorino cheese.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to whip up this mouthwatering dish:

1. Heat Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Sear Chicken

Add the chicken chunks to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.

3. Sauté Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add Lemon

Pour in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well to combine all flavors.

5. Stir in Cream

Reduce the heat to medium-low, and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

6. Cook Pasta

In a separate pot, cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

7. Combine

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken and sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated.

8. Add Cheese

Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

9. Garnish

Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top before serving for a fresh finish.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the cream sauce does not freeze well.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Grate your own Parmesan for a creamier texture.
• Do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with a crisp green salad for a fresh side.
• Serve with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.