Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is one of those meals that feels fancy but is really not hard to make . You get tender chicken that’s soaked in lemon and garlic, then toss it with bowtie pasta in a smooth, creamy sauce . It’s great for a busy weeknight or when you want to impress without a lot of fuss .
Cooking is all about mixing flavors so they work together . Here, the sharp tang of lemon balances out the rich cream , while garlic sneaks in a warm, savory note that makes every bite pop . When chicken and pasta team up like this , you end up with something simple yet special .
On top of tasting great , this dish packs some good stuff for your body . Chicken is a lean protein that helps your muscles grow and heal . Pasta gives you the carbs you need to stay energized . And garlic and lemon bring antioxidants and vitamins that can help your digestion and your immune system . It’s a yummy way to eat well .
What is Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta?
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is basically chicken marinated in lemon juice and garlic , then cooked and mixed with bowtie pasta in a creamy sauce . The chicken can be breast or thigh , whichever you like better . The bowtie shape (sometimes called farfallini) catches the sauce so you get flavor in every bite .
This recipe takes ideas from Italian cooking , where pasta and fresh ingredients rule . At the same time , the lemon and garlic remind you of Mediterranean flavors that have been used for centuries . Put them together , and you have a dish that feels like a mash-up of two tasty traditions .
Flavor Profile
The taste here is a mix of bright, savory, and rich . Lemon gives you that zesty sour kick . Garlic adds a deep, warm smell and taste . The cream smooths things out and makes the sauce stick to the pasta .
Chicken soaks up the lemon-garlic mix , so each bite is juicy and full of flavor . Then the bowtie pasta holds onto the creamy sauce , so nothing slides off your fork . Herbs and spices tie it all together and stop any one taste from being too strong .
Nutritional Benefits
This meal is more than just good taste . Chicken is filled with protein , which your body needs to build muscle and fix tissues . Pasta gives you energy in the form of carbohydrates , so you don’t crash after eating .
Going for whole-grain pasta can add fiber that helps your stomach work better , plus extra vitamins and minerals . Garlic has antioxidants that fight off bad stuff in your body . Lemon brings vitamin C , which is great for your skin and immunity .
Cooking Techniques
First , pick your chicken . Breasts are lean and cook fast , but thighs stay juicier . Marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic , salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes . This makes it tasty and tender .
Next , boil a big pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta until it’s al dente . That means it’s still a little firm when you bite it . Save a bit of the pasta water in case your sauce needs thinning later .
Then heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat . Once it’s hot , cook the chicken until it’s golden on each side . Let it rest a few minutes before cutting so it stays juicy .
Finally , use the same pan to make the sauce . Add a little more garlic , then pour in chicken broth and cream . Let it simmer until it thickens . Toss the chicken and pasta into the sauce so everything gets coated . Serve right away for best taste .
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 skillet
- 1 colander
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 whisk
- 1 tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450g)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 zest lemon
- 1 juice lemon
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce until well coated. Add the sliced chicken and stir to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
