Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

If you’re searching for a meal that balances zesty brightness with creamy indulgence, Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is your answer. This delightful dish combines tender chicken with the tangy allure of lemon and the aromatic punch of garlic, all served atop creamy, al dente bowtie pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Most items are pantry staples or readily available at your local store.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour for minimal stress.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by adults and kids alike.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Garlic Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Bowtie Pasta:

• 2 cups bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

this recipe

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture and let them marinate for 15–20 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the marinated chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Pasta

1. In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add the garlic.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.
4. Toss in the cooked bowtie pasta until evenly coated.

5. Serve

1. Slice the cooked chicken and serve it over the creamy bowtie pasta.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips for Success

• Marinating: Longer marination enhances the flavor, but even 15 minutes makes a difference.
• Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Pasta Alternatives: Try penne or rotini if bowtie pasta isn’t available.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Perfect Pairings

• Wine: Pair with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Sides: Serve with a fresh Caesar salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Serving Suggestions

• Family Dinners: Serve hot as a centerpiece dish with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
• Garnishing: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, and a wedge of lemon for an elegant touch.
• Pairing Ideas: This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration:
   • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
   • Keep the chicken and pasta together for convenience or separate if you plan to reheat differently.
2. Freezing:
   • While the creamy sauce can change texture slightly when frozen, you can freeze the pasta and chicken for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
   • To prevent clumping, add a little olive oil to the pasta before freezing.

Reheating Tips

• On the Stovetop:
  • Place the pasta and chicken in a skillet over low heat.
  • Add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave:
  • Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overcooking. Add a little liquid if the pasta looks dry.
• Oven:
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta and chicken in a covered dish and bake for 15–20 minutes or until hot.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta freshly prepared or as a delicious leftover meal!

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bowtie (farfalle) pasta works beautifully in this dish, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or even spaghetti. Choose a pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce well for the best results.

2. What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a teaspoon of cornstarch to achieve a similar creamy consistency. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or cashew cream works well, though the flavor will differ slightly.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and pasta separately and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the pasta with the cream sauce on the stovetop, then add the sliced chicken. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the regular bowtie pasta for a gluten-free pasta of your choice. Ensure all other ingredients, like chicken broth and seasonings, are gluten-free as well.

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