If you’re searching for the perfect meal to add to your weekly recipe rotation, look no further than Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta. This dish effortlessly combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the brightness of lemon, creating a well-balanced, mouthwatering experience. The star of this recipe is the perfectly seasoned, golden-brown chicken, which is nestled in a rich, Parmesan-infused cream sauce and served over tender, bowtie pasta.
I remember the first time I tried a similar version of this recipe it instantly became a staple in my household. The creamy sauce melds with the savory chicken and tangy lemon to create an unforgettable flavor profile. Every bite is satisfying, with the pasta soaking up all the goodness, while the fresh lemon zest and juice cut through the richness. It’s a dish that feels fancy yet is simple enough for any busy weeknight, and it’s bound to impress family and friends alike.
What makes this dish even better is how quickly it comes together. From the first chop to the last creamy spoonful, you’ll find yourself enjoying a comforting, flavorful meal in less than 30 minutes. The great thing about this recipe is that it’s flexible whether you’re cooking for one or a whole group, it’s easy to adjust the portions and ingredients.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?
Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is an irresistible combination of savory, creamy, and zesty flavors. The rich Parmesan sauce, paired with the tender chicken and the slight tang of lemon, creates a depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. The bowtie pasta, with its unique shape, is the perfect vessel for the sauce, allowing each bite to be a delightful mix of textures.
This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little indulgence without being overwhelming. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and fresh, vibrant ingredients, and is the ideal meal for both casual family dinners and special occasions. The lemon not only brightens the entire dish, but it also acts as the perfect contrast to the creamy richness of the sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For this recipe, we’re using a few simple ingredients to create a dish that feels luxurious but is still manageable on a busy night. Here’s the full list:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon butter
- For the Bowtie Pasta:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (you can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (use freshly grated for the best results)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This list of ingredients is all you’ll need to make this delicious meal, and they are simple, readily available items that you can find in any local grocery store. The fresh lemon adds a zesty flair to the dish, while the chicken provides protein and a satisfying texture. The bowtie pasta, with its unique shape, soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions:
Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, let’s dive into the directions. This recipe is straightforward and simple to follow, with only a few steps to prepare a stunning meal. The following instructions will ensure you get a rich and creamy sauce and perfectly cooked chicken.
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed on both sides. This will give your chicken a burst of flavor as it cooks. Once seasoned, slice the chicken into strips, about 1-inch wide, so they cook quickly and evenly.
Step 2: Cook the pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook a little when combined with the sauce. Once done, drain the pasta, but reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. This starchy water can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed. Set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Cook the chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to be golden brown and fully cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: Make the creamy sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and allow it to melt. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the zest and juice of 1 lemon to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. The lemon will infuse the sauce with its fresh, citrusy flavor. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Step 5: Combine the chicken and pasta
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out. Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is fully coated with the creamy lemon garlic sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Once everything is combined and coated in the sauce, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a bit of freshness. Serve immediately, making sure each plate gets a generous portion of chicken, pasta, and creamy sauce.
Recipe Variations:
One of the things I love about this recipe is how adaptable it is. If you’re looking to add your own twist, here are a few variations you can try:
- Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh. For the creamy sauce, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a plant-based butter and cheese substitute for the Parmesan. This will give you a vegan version that’s just as delicious!
- Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap out the regular bowtie pasta for a gluten-free variety. Many great gluten-free pasta options are available, including rice pasta or quinoa-based pasta.
- Extra Vegetables: For more color and nutrition, you can add veggies like spinach, peas, or even roasted cherry tomatoes. Stir them into the sauce along with the chicken for a boost of flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce as it simmers. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken while seasoning it for an extra layer of spice.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta:
This dish is filling and flavorful on its own, but you can pair it with some complementary sides for a more rounded meal. Here are a few ideas for serving:
- Side Salad: A light green salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens is perfect for cutting through the richness of the creamy pasta. Toss the greens with a tangy vinaigrette for an extra burst of freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers work well with this dish. Their natural sweetness and slightly smoky flavor complement the zesty lemon in the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love garlic bread with pasta? The crunchy, buttery texture makes it the perfect side to mop up any extra creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 620 per serving (based on 4 servings)
- Protein: 38g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 32g
Cooking Tips and Tricks:
To make sure this dish turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Fresh Parmesan: For the best creamy texture, always use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, which can impact the consistency of the sauce.
- Properly Cook the Chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry. Once it’s golden brown and cooked through, it’s done!
- Pasta Cooking Tip: Make sure to salt the water before cooking the pasta. This will help to season the pasta, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Here are a few reasons why Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta should be on your list of favorite recipes:
- Quick and Easy: It’s a one-pan dish (after the pasta’s cooked), and you can have this delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful and Comforting: The creamy sauce, zesty lemon, and savory chicken come together to create a rich and satisfying dish that will leave everyone at the table happy.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is great for all ages, from kids to adults. The flavors are familiar yet exciting, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free, vegan, or vegetable-packed version, you can easily customize this dish to fit your dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a double batch for meal prep, and you’ll have a delicious lunch or dinner ready to go for the next few days. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy people.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works great with this creamy sauce, you can substitute it with any pasta you like. Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti would be perfect alternatives. The key is to use pasta shapes that will hold the sauce well.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a little spice, you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce. Start with a pinch and adjust according to your spice tolerance. The heat will add a nice balance to the creaminess of the sauce.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce, then cook the pasta. This will help preserve the creamy texture of the sauce.
4. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, it’s important to thaw the chicken first before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly and reaches the proper internal temperature.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and pasta without the sauce. The sauce itself may not freeze well due to its creamy consistency, but the chicken and pasta can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to make a fresh batch of sauce when you reheat it.
Conclusion:
Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is one of those dishes that brings together everything you love about food creamy, savory, bright, and comforting all at once. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual dinner party, or just craving something indulgent, this dish will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
With just a few simple ingredients and a handful of easy steps, you can create a meal that feels like it belongs in a fancy restaurant but is made right in your own kitchen. The rich, creamy sauce, the succulent chicken, and the delightful bowtie pasta will have you coming back for seconds.
Don’t forget to share your version of this recipe with your family and friends they’ll be asking for the recipe in no time! Happy cooking!
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Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon butter
- For the Bowtie Pasta:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (you can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (use freshly grated for the best results)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed on both sides. This will give your chicken a burst of flavor as it cooks. Once seasoned, slice the chicken into strips, about 1-inch wide, so they cook quickly and evenly.
Step 2: Cook the pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook a little when combined with the sauce. Once done, drain the pasta, but reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. This starchy water can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed. Set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Cook the chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to be golden brown and fully cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add butter and allow it to melt. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the zest and juice of 1 lemon to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. The lemon will infuse the sauce with its fresh, citrusy flavor. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Step 5: Combine the chicken and pasta
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out. Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is fully coated with the creamy lemon garlic sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Once everything is combined and coated in the sauce, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a bit of freshness. Serve immediately, making sure each plate gets a generous portion of chicken, pasta, and creamy sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: 620
- Sodium: 680
- Protein: 38