Description
Succulent lemon garlic chicken dances with creamy bowtie pasta in this irresistible Mediterranean-inspired dish. Rich flavors and simple ingredients combine to deliver a comforting meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasoning and Flavoring:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients:
- 300 g (10 ounces) bowtie pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
- ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta vessel with generously salted water, bringing it to a rolling boil. Submerge bowtie pasta and cook until perfectly al dente, following package guidelines. Carefully drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of cooking liquid, and set aside.
- Transform chicken breasts into flavor-packed medallions by generously coating with a zesty blend of spices. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, creating a golden searing environment. Carefully place seasoned chicken into the pan, cooking until each side develops a rich, caramel-like crust and the interior reaches perfect doneness. Splash fresh lemon juice over the chicken, then transfer to a waiting plate.
- Utilize the same skillet to craft a luxurious sauce. Melt butter until it shimmers, then introduce minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to permeate the kitchen. Pour in velvety heavy cream, creating a smooth base. Incorporate Parmesan cheese and bright lemon zest, whisking until the mixture transforms into a silky, slightly thickened sauce.
- Introduce the cooked pasta to the creamy concoction, gently tossing to ensure each pasta bow is lavishly coated. Sprinkle in fresh parsley, providing a vibrant green contrast and herbal notes. Taste and refine the seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed.
- Artfully slice the chicken into elegant strips, arranging them atop the creamy pasta landscape. Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color. For those desiring extra zing, present lemon wedges alongside the dish, inviting diners to customize their culinary experience.
Notes
- Pasta Selection: Choose high-quality bowtie pasta with ridges to help sauce cling better, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
- Salt Water Technique: Use generously salted boiling water to enhance pasta’s natural taste, creating a more robust foundation for the dish.
- Chicken Doneness: Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked, juicy chicken without drying out.
- Lemon Zesting Trick: Grate lemon zest before squeezing juice to maximize citrus flavor and prevent losing essential aromatic oils.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a lighter, plant-based version that maintains creamy texture.
- Quick Meal Prep: Slice chicken in advance and store separately to reduce overall cooking time during busy weeknights.
- Herb Freshness: Use freshly chopped parsley just before serving to preserve vibrant color and bright, crisp flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg