Indulge in Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta—a rich, savory dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any dinner table! This delightful combination brings together tender chicken, zesty lemon, and creamy pasta, creating a comforting meal that your family and friends will love. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is bound to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon and garlic infuses the chicken with a refreshing and savory taste.
Comfort Food: Creamy bowtie pasta adds a delightful texture that complements the juicy chicken perfectly.
Versatile: Great for any occasion, from casual family dinners to more elegant gatherings.
Kid-Friendly: The appealing flavors and fun pasta shape make it a hit with the little ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta are simple yet essential, each contributing to the dish’s delightful taste and texture. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this delectable meal.

Chicken Breast: Tender cuts of chicken breast provide a juicy base for the dish.
Bowtie Pasta: The unique shape captures the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite delightful.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor that pairs wonderfully with the lemon.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings a bright acidity that elevates the entire dish.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient creates a rich and creamy sauce that envelops the pasta and chicken.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory depth and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition, making the dish more wholesome.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps to sauté the chicken and garlic to perfection.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these basics enhance all the flavors in the dish.

Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Variations for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious meat-free version.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add a fragrant twist to the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if you enjoy a little spice in your meal.

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Delight

How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, thickening slightly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce. Incorporate the sliced chicken, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is mixed, serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta immediately. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice provide the best flavor, so opt for these over bottled versions.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is tender by cooking it just until done; overcooking can lead to dryness.
Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency without diluting the flavor.
Experiment with Cheese: Try using different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs not only add flavor but also enhance the dish’s presentation.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice touch and enhances the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun serving suggestion, consider plating the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta in a large, shallow bowl. Add a drizzle of olive oil around the edges for an elegant look, and serve with crusty bread for a complete dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before covering it to avoid condensation.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to two months. To freeze, portion it into individual servings in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is delightful, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep! You can make a large batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, though the texture may vary slightly.

How spicy is this dish?

This dish is not spicy unless you choose to add red pepper flakes or other spicy seasonings, making it suitable for all palates.

Can I make this dish in advance?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving for the best results.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a comforting and delicious meal, I encourage you to try making Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta. It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Author: Savannah
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, thickening slightly.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce. Incorporate the sliced chicken, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is mixed, serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta immediately. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.