Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

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A Flavor-Packed Comfort Dish!

Looking for a dinner idea that’s both indulgent and refreshing? This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a perfect choice. The dish is a harmonious blend of rich, creamy textures balanced by zesty citrus flavors, making it an excellent choice for weeknight meals or special occasions. Here’s everything you need to know to create this delicious masterpiece.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

This recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients, yet each plays a vital role in creating a truly satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and tender for easy cooking and soaking up flavors.
  • Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for a perfect balance of flavor.
  • Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream & Parmesan: Rich, velvety base ingredients that make the sauce irresistibly creamy.
  • Lemon Juice & Zest: The zesty twist that lifts the creaminess with bright, fresh notes.
  • Bowtie Pasta: A fun, sauce-hugging pasta that elevates the dish’s texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown, ensuring it’s fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Set aside.

2. Prepare the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, boil bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.

3. Craft the Creamy Sauce

Using the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up the flavorful bits. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, zest, and seasonings. Simmer until slightly thickened.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring every bowtie is coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust consistency with the reserved pasta water, if needed.

5. Slice and Mix Chicken

Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and gently fold into the pasta mixture, letting the flavors meld together.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and serve hot.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish combines creamy indulgence with zesty freshness to create a balanced flavor profile. The garlic-infused cream sauce clings to the bowtie pasta, while the lemon’s brightness cuts through the richness. The chicken ties it all together with its savory depth, ensuring every bite is a delight.

Pro Tips for Perfection

  • Use fresh lemons: Fresh juice and zest are key to the vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Don’t skip the Parmesan: It enhances the sauce’s creaminess and adds a savory umami touch.
  • Adjust to taste: Add extra pasta water for a thinner sauce or let it simmer longer for a thicker consistency.

Elevate your dinner game with Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta—a comforting yet elegant dish that’s simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Bon appétit!

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