Description

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is the perfect dish to turn an ordinary evening into something extraordinary. This recipe combines the vibrant freshness of lemon, the subtle warmth of garlic, and the indulgent richness of a creamy sauce. The bowtie pasta, or farfalle, is the ideal choice as its unique shape captures the velvety sauce in every bite. Visually stunning and quick to prepare, this recipe suits both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the Creamy Sauce:
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• For the Pasta:
• 8 oz (about 225g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• For Garnish:
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Method

Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet, cover with foil to keep warm, and set aside.

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet. Let the broth simmer for 2 minutes, reducing slightly.

Add the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir well, seasoning with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, thickening slightly. If needed, adjust the consistency by stirring in small amounts of the reserved pasta water. Once the sauce reaches your desired texture, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.

Toss the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, ensuring every piece is well-coated with the creamy sauce. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces and add them to the pasta. Gently toss everything together, letting the chicken absorb the sauce for maximum flavor.

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the flavors are at their peak.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Prefer a lighter version? Substitute heavy cream with light cream or evaporated milk.

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and simplicity. It’s a dish that brings joy to both the cook and those lucky enough to enjoy it. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, it delivers a balance of freshness and richness that’s hard to resist. Looking for more culinary inspiration? Pair this dish with homemade artisan bread or a crisp green salad. Share this recipe with your friends, and don’t forget to explore other delicious ideas on our site!