Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta : welcome to a culinary adventure that combines bright flavors with creamy goodness! Today, we will explore the delightful dish known as Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a meal that is both zesty and satisfying. With tender chicken coated in a fragrant lemon garlic sauce, paired with smooth and creamy bowtie pasta, this dish is sure to please your taste buds.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a favorite for families and food lovers alike. Firstly, the flavors are simply divine. The sharpness of lemon combined with the rich garlic creates a mouthwatering experience. Secondly, this dish is easy to prepare, making it appropriate for busy weeknights or special occasions. Thirdly, it is a complete meal with protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the pasta, which can keep everyone full and happy. Finally, it is a meal that can impress your guests while being simple enough for a casual night at home.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

How to Prepare Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this delightful recipe. The cooking process is not complicated, and I will guide you through each step to make it as easy as possible.

Ingredients:

To prepare Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces bowtie pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s start cooking. Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside. Make sure to reserve some pasta water for later use.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, take the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the skillet, followed by the chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a simmer.
5. Add Cream and Cheese: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it well with the creamy sauce. Add the sliced chicken on top, mixing everything together gently.
7. Final Touches: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from heat.
8. Serve: Transfer the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Serving this delicious dish is simple and can be done in various ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Family Style: Serve the pasta in a large bowl in the center of the dining table. Allow everyone to serve themselves, making it an interactive dining experience.
• Individual Plates: Plate the pasta and chicken individually, adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top for a personal touch.
• Pair with Sides: Serve with a side salad for some freshness, or garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort.

Regardless of how you serve it, this dish is sure to be a hit!

How to Store Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so good!), storing it is easy:

1. Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it.
2. Refrigerate: Place the leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. It should last for 3-4 days.
3. Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the microwave or on the stove.

Tips for Preparing Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Here are some helpful tips to make your cooking experience even better:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking to avoid it becoming dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley can elevate the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Pasta Water Magic: Reserve pasta water! It can help adjust the sauce consistency and add extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just combine them with the cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Variation (if applicable)

Feel free to personalize this recipe! Here are some variations you can try:

• Add Vegetables: Mix in some seasonal vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic for a spicy twist.
• Herb Alternatives: Swap parsley for basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

   Yes! While bowtie pasta works great, you can substitute it with any pasta type you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.

2. Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

   Absolutely! You can use chicken breast without skin, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, and use less cheese for a lighter version.

3. Can I use frozen chicken?

   It’s best to thaw frozen chicken before cooking to ensure even cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it straight from frozen, but it will take longer.

Now you know how to make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta. This recipe is not only simple and quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Enjoy your delicious creation and share it with your loved ones for a memorable meal!