Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Yourself savoring a mouthwatering lemon garlic chicken dish that instantly sparks dinner excitement.

Mediterranean flavors dance through this creamy bowtie pasta creation, promising warmth in every bite.

Tender chicken pieces nestled against silky pasta ribbons, each forkful bursting with zesty brightness.

Home cooks adore simple recipes that feel like restaurant-quality meals without complicated techniques.

Fragrant garlic and bright citrus notes weave magic into this comforting classic.

Succulent chicken becomes the star, complemented by a velvety sauce that whispers indulgence.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for those nights when deliciousness matters most.

Fun Variations Of Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Spicy Mediterranean Remix: Replace paprika with red pepper flakes and add oregano. Incorporate crumbled feta cheese into the sauce for a tangy Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Herb-Infused Creamy Version: Mix fresh thyme and rosemary into the chicken seasoning. Substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth for a lighter sauce consistency.
• Protein Power Upgrade: Swap chicken breasts with grilled shrimp or seared salmon. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the final dish for added crunch and nutritional boost.
• Vegetarian Pasta Transformation: Replace chicken with roasted zucchini and mushrooms. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to maintain a creamy texture while keeping the dish plant-based.

FAQs About Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Why use both lemon juice and lemon zest in this recipe?

The lemon juice adds bright, tangy flavor to the chicken, while the zest provides a more intense, aromatic citrus note to the creamy sauce without making it too acidic.

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe and can be even more flavorful and juicy. Just ensure they reach the same internal temperature of 165F/74C when cooking.

• Is Parmesan cheese necessary for the sauce?

Parmesan is key to creating the rich, creamy texture and adding depth of flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, you could substitute with similar hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or aged Asiago.

• How can I make this dish lighter?

To reduce calories, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, use less butter, and opt for a lighter cheese option. You could also use Greek yogurt as a partial cream substitute for added protein and tanginess.

Why Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta Feels Like Comfort In A Bowl

• Flavor Explosion: Zesty lemon and garlic combine to create a mouthwatering punch that transforms ordinary chicken and pasta into an extraordinary meal.
• Creamy Comfort Magic: The rich, velvety sauce hugs each bowtie pasta perfectly, delivering a luxurious texture that feels like a warm culinary embrace.
• Quick Kitchen Hero: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners without sacrificing incredible taste and restaurant-quality presentation.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with a single skillet means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying a delicious, restaurant-style meal at home.

What Goes In Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Bowtie Pasta: A classic shape perfect for catching creamy sauce, holds flavors beautifully.

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that pairs wonderfully with creamy sauces, best when fresh and boneless.

• Garlic Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Classic spice mix for creating deep flavor and light crust on chicken.

• Butter, Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Rich dairy components that create smooth, luxurious sauce texture.

• Lemon, Lemon Zest: Adds zesty freshness and balances the rich, creamy sauce.

• Parsley: Provides fresh, clean finish and beautiful green color garnish.

• Olive Oil: Helps cook chicken and adds subtle flavor base.

How To Make Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta Easily

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfection

Start by filling a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Toss in the bowtie pasta and cook until it reaches that ideal al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, ready for its flavor transformation.

Step 2: Season and Sizzle Chicken

Grab your chicken breasts and give them a flavor explosion. Sprinkle a blend of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper all over the meat. Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet until it shimmers with potential. Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot pan. Let it dance and sizzle for 5-7 minutes on each side, developing a gorgeous golden-brown crust. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature hits 165F/74C. Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken, then transfer it to a waiting plate.

Step 3: Craft Velvety Sauce Magic

In the same skillet filled with those delicious chicken remnants, melt butter until it bubbles softly. Toss in minced garlic and let it fill the kitchen with its aromatic charm. Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently to create a smooth base. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, whisking until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens to a luxurious consistency.

Step 4: Unite Pasta and Sauce

Introduce the cooked bowtie pasta to the creamy sauce. Toss and coat every single pasta curve with the velvety mixture. Scatter fresh chopped parsley throughout, adding a burst of color and freshness. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning, adding a pinch of salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Plate and Serve with Flair

Slice the perfectly cooked chicken into elegant strips. Arrange the creamy pasta on plates and crown it with the chicken slices. For an extra touch of brightness, sprinkle additional parsley on top. If you’re feeling fancy, add a few lemon wedges on the side for diners to squeeze over their meal.

Tips For Rich Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Pasta Perfection: Cook the bowtie pasta just until al dente to maintain a slight bite and prevent mushiness.
• Chicken Searing Secret: Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in moisture.
• Sauce Smoothing Technique: Whisk the Parmesan cheese slowly into the cream to prevent clumping and create a silky, uniform sauce.
• Herb Freshness Boost: Add chopped parsley at the very end to preserve its bright color and vibrant flavor.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a lactose-free version that still delivers creamy goodness.

How To Save Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta For Later

• Refrigerate: Store leftover lemon garlic chicken and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate chicken from pasta to maintain the best texture and prevent sogginess.
• Freeze: Wrap portions individually in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat Pasta: Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent drying out. Stir gently and frequently to distribute heat evenly.
• Reheat Chicken: Warm chicken slices in the microwave using 30-second intervals, or reheat in a covered skillet with a small amount of chicken broth to keep the meat juicy and prevent overcooking.

Tasty Pairings With Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Elevate Wine Pairing: Crisp chardonnay or sauvignon blanc perfectly complements the lemon's brightness and cuts through the creamy pasta's richness, balancing the garlic's bold flavor.
• Enhance Bread Selection: Crusty garlic bread or toasted ciabatta slices work wonderfully for soaking up the creamy sauce, adding delightful texture and extra flavor to the meal.
• Match Vegetable Side: Roasted asparagus or grilled zucchini with a light lemon drizzle creates a fresh, complementary vegetable accompaniment that echoes the dish's citrusy notes.
• Boost Salad Option: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery, crisp contrast to the rich pasta, adding a refreshing element to the plate.

Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent lemon garlic chicken mingles with creamy bowtie pasta, creating a harmonious Mediterranean-inspired feast. Zesty flavors and comforting textures combine, promising a delightful meal where herbs, citrus, and tender chicken elevate your dining experience.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets

Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 4 cups (960 milliliters) water or chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt

Seasonings and Sauce Ingredients:

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges (optional)

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Instructions

1. Initiate pasta preparation by bringing a generously sized pot of water or chicken broth to a rolling boil. Introduce bowtie pasta and a pinch of salt, cooking until perfectly tender yet firm. Once cooked, drain thoroughly, preserving a small portion of pasta water for later use.

1. Transform chicken cutlets into a flavor-packed canvas by generously coating with a blend of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Warm a large skillet with a harmonious mixture of olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Carefully place chicken into the sizzling pan, creating a golden-brown exterior for 3-4 minutes per side. Enhance the cooking process by drizzling vibrant lemon juice and sprinkling delicate lemon zest directly onto the chicken. Once perfectly cooked, transfer the chicken to a waiting plate.

1. Utilize the same skillet to craft a luxurious sauce. Melt butter and introduce minced garlic, allowing it to become wonderfully aromatic. Gradually incorporate heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Pour in lemon juice and allow the mixture to simmer, thickening into a velvety consistency. Fine-tune the flavor profile with additional salt and pepper as desired.

1. Gently fold the prepared bowtie pasta into the creamy sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is lavishly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, incorporate reserved pasta water to achieve the ideal texture. Artfully slice the cooked chicken and arrange it atop the pasta.

1. Complete the dish by scattering fresh parsley as a vibrant garnish. Present with lemon wedges to add a bright, citrusy dimension. Complement the meal with crusty bread or a crisp side salad for a truly satisfying dining experience.

Notes

• Choose high-quality chicken cutlets with even thickness for consistent cooking and perfect searing.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal spice tolerance, creating a customizable heat level.
• Switch heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for lighter, healthier sauce variations without compromising flavor.
• Use fresh lemon zest and juice for brighter, more vibrant citrus notes that elevate the entire dish’s taste profile.
• Select good-quality Parmesan cheese to enhance the sauce’s richness and depth of flavor.
• Keep pasta water as a secret weapon for creating silky, perfectly textured sauce that clings beautifully to bowtie pasta.
• Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain ideal texture and prevent mushiness when mixed with creamy sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 64 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg