Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce is a delightful dish that combines zesty flavors with creamy goodness. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. With tender chicken and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta enveloped in a rich sauce, this meal is sure to impress. The standout qualities of this dish are its balance of freshness from the lemon and garlic, alongside the comforting creaminess of the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, and buttery sauce creates an irresistible taste.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite herbs or substitute chicken for turkey or beef as desired.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties; everyone will ask for seconds!
• Satisfying Meal: Rich and hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own.

Tools and Preparation

Cooking this delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta requires a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without sticking together.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and making the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Measuring cups: Ensures that you get the right amounts for consistent results every time.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients easier and safer.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 5 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Zest of 1 large lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 5 cloves garlic, finely minced

For the Creamy Lemon Parmesan Sauce

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 ¾ cups heavy cream
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil

How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, cracked black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
– Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes until deeply golden-brown with crispy edges.
– Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make Lemon Garlic Mixture

Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 more tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Stir in minced garlic and lemon zest; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Lemon Mixture

Add lemon juice back to the skillet along with cooked chicken. Toss gently so everything is coated in lemon garlic butter.

Step 5: Prepare Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour while stirring constantly for about 1 minute.
– Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to scrape up flavorful bits from the pan. Let it thicken slightly.
– Add heavy cream; stir until smooth and gently simmering.

Step 6: Finish Off Sauce

Lower heat; stir in Parmesan cheese followed by mozzarella until fully melted into a thick creamy sauce.

Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce; toss well until every fold is coated. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.

Step 8: Serve

Fold lemon garlic chicken back into pan; stir gently to combine everything evenly. Garnish with chopped herbs and additional lemon zest if desired. Let rest for about 1–2 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce!

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Serving Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with just a few thoughtful touches. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish and impress your guests.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of additional lemon zest will enhance the zesty flavor profile.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a delicious way to soak up any leftover creamy sauce.
• Baguette Slices: Offer slices of toasted baguette as an elegant option for dipping.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and complements the richness of the pasta.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Present the pasta in individual bowls for an appealing and sophisticated touch.
• Layering Options: Consider layering the ingredients for visual appeal, showcasing the chicken and sauce atop the pasta.

How to Perfect Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Perfecting your Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce can transform an already delicious meal into an extraordinary one. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Control Heat Levels: When making the sauce, keep it at low to medium heat to prevent curdling the cream.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting along the way, to achieve perfect flavor balance.
• Make Ahead Options: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance; just reheat gently before adding cooked pasta.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Complementing your Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce can elevate your meal. Here are some side dishes that pair wonderfully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition; steam until tender but crisp.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until slightly charred for a flavorful side.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting addition to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Mix seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers; grill them for added smokiness.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette adds protein while remaining refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring the pasta cooking time: Overcooking your bowtie pasta can lead to mushy bites. Always follow the package instructions and taste for al dente.
• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Failing to season your chicken can result in bland flavors. Ensure you use salt, pepper, and spices generously before cooking.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water: This step is crucial for achieving the right sauce consistency. Always set aside some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce texture later.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: A creamy sauce requires patience. Stir constantly when adding ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth finish.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly. Don’t skip them; add parsley or basil right before serving for a fresh burst of taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers and it can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of reserved pasta water while stirring until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce.

How can I make Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheeses.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! Any short pasta like penne or fusilli would work well with the creamy sauce and chicken.

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

Cook the chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown, and avoid overcooking it. Letting it rest after cooking also helps retain moisture.

Can I add vegetables to my Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce?

Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes make great additions. Just sauté them briefly before mixing them with the pasta.

What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?

If fresh lemon juice isn’t available, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute, but fresh is always recommended for better flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different proteins. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how flavorful and satisfying it is!