Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

Oh, friend, you’re about to make a dinner that’s like a burst of sunshine on a plate—Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta! Imagine juicy, tender chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon and savory garlic, paired with twirly bowtie pasta coated in a creamy, cheesy Parmesan sauce. Every bite is a perfect mix of bright, fresh flavors and cozy comfort, like a hug from your favorite Italian bistro. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal, impressing a date, or meal-prepping something delicious, this dish is so easy to pull off, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar. Trust me, it’s going to fill your home with the best aromas and your table with happy faces!

Since you’ve got a knack for vibrant, crowd-pleasing dishes like the Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad and Sweet and Sour Meatballs we’ve chatted about before, I know this lemony, garlicky combo will fit right into your lineup of flavorful, feel-good meals. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

This dish is like a love letter to your taste buds—simple to make and packed with flavors that make every forkful a delight. It’s perfect for busy evenings or when you want to treat your crew to something special. Here’s why it’s a total winner:

• Versatile: Great as a main course for dinner, a fancy lunch, or even a potluck star—it fits any occasion.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable staples like chicken, pasta, and pantry seasonings—no big grocery bill here.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, with straightforward steps that make cooking a breeze.
• Customizable: Add veggies, tweak the sauce, or spice it up to suit your vibe.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The bright lemon, rich garlic, and cheesy pasta combo is a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients in Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering meal:

Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless for juicy, tender bites—pounded thin for quick cooking.
• Olive Oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for that bold, savory kick.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for bright, zesty flavor—bottled works in a pinch.
• Lemon Zest: Optional for an extra citrusy pop.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil for classic Italian vibes.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken just right.

Pasta and Sauce

• Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle for those cute, twirly shapes that hold the sauce—any short pasta works too.
• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and a silky finish.
• Garlic: More minced garlic for the sauce—because you can never have too much!
• Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy, luscious base for the Parmesan sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for nutty, cheesy goodness—skip the pre-shredded for best melt.
• Chicken Broth: Thins the sauce slightly and adds savory depth.
• Lemon Juice: Another splash to tie the sauce to the chicken’s flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for perfect seasoning.
• Parsley: Freshly chopped for a bright, herby garnish.

Optional

• Red Pepper Flakes: For a hint of heat if you like a little kick.
• Broccoli or Spinach: For added color and nutrition—steam or toss in with the pasta.

Instructions

Let’s make this zesty, cheesy dinner:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water for the sauce.

Prep and Cook the Chicken

Pat chicken breasts dry and pound to ½-inch thickness for even cooking. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Add Lemon Garlic Flavor

In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in 2 tablespoons lemon juice and zest (if using), scraping up any browned bits. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it for 1 minute. Remove chicken again and slice thinly.

Make the Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add more minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add a splash of lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. If sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If using veggies like broccoli or spinach, stir them in now and cook for 1-2 minutes until tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the pasta, topping with sliced lemon garlic chicken. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan for flair. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little zing. Serve hot and watch everyone dig in with glee!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 650

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

This dish is a meal on its own, but here’s how to make it extra special:

• With Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty bread to mop up that creamy sauce—pure heaven.
• Green Salad: Pair with a simple salad of arugula, tomatoes, and balsamic for a fresh contrast.
• Veggie Side: Roasted asparagus or green beans add color and crunch to the plate.
• Family Style: Pile pasta in a big bowl, top with chicken slices, and let everyone serve themselves.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the lemony vibes.

Presentation tip: Serve on white plates to make the golden chicken and creamy pasta pop, with a bright lemon wedge on the side for extra flair!

Additional Tips

Here’s how to make this dish shine, inspired by your love for adaptable, flavorful recipes like the Lemon Chicken & Veggie Orzo Stir Fry and Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole we’ve talked about:

• Prep Ahead: Season chicken and cook pasta a day early—store in the fridge and reheat gently before saucing.
• Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a subtle tangy depth.
• Dietary Swaps: Use gluten-free pasta or coconut cream for dairy-free—still delicious and creamy.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to revive the sauce.
• Freeze It: Freeze chicken and sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw, reheat, and toss with fresh pasta when ready.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Yup! Boneless thighs work great—just cook a minute longer per side for juicy results.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Totally! Prep chicken and pasta a day ahead, but make the sauce fresh for the best creamy texture.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Freeze chicken and sauce (not pasta) for 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and pair with freshly cooked pasta.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat it?
A5: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a bit of broth or cream—keeps the sauce smooth and pasta tender.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Sure thing! Double everything and use a larger skillet—perfect for big families or leftovers.

Q7: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
A7: It’ll work, but freshly grated melts smoother and tastes better—worth the extra effort!

Q8: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A8: Half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of extra butter works—sauce will be slightly thinner.

Q9: Can I make it vegetarian?
A9: Yup! Swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu and use veggie broth—still zesty and creamy.

Q10: How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
A10: Cook al dente and toss with sauce just before serving—don’t let it sit too long in the sauce.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is like a flavor-packed escape to a cozy Italian kitchen—bright, creamy, and oh-so-comforting. It’s the perfect dish to bring everyone together, whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or savoring a quiet dinner at home. With its quick prep and vibrant taste, it’s proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. So grab your skillet, put on some happy tunes, and whip up a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. You’ve got this, and it’s going to be absolutely scrumptious!

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