Name: Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon butter; 8 oz bowtie pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 pinch pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the brightness of lemon and the richness of creamy sauce. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and delicious. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon creates a rich flavor that makes this dish stand out. Plus, bowtie pasta adds a fun element to each bite! It’s a complete meal with protein, carbs, and creamy goodness that can be ready in less than 30 minutes.

How to Make Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon butter
8 oz bowtie pasta
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pinch pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Start by cooking the bowtie pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until just tender. Once done, drain and set aside. Reserve a bit of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Sizzle for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Then stir in the fresh lemon zest and juice.
Add a tablespoon of butter, letting it melt and coat the chicken in that zesty, garlicky goodness. Turn off the heat and set the chicken aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring as it begins to simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Once the cream sauce is ready, stir in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and silky. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss gently to coat each piece. If the sauce is too thick, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water.
Fold in the lemon garlic chicken and stir to combine everything evenly.
Spoon the pasta onto plates or into bowls, and top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

How to Serve Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan

Serve this delicious dish warm, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.

How to Store Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and seasonings for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best creamy texture.
You can adjust the lemon zest and juice to suit your taste for a more intense citrus flavor.

Variation

Try adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta for extra nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store the chicken and pasta separately to maintain their texture.

Now you’re all set to make this delicious Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan at home! Enjoy every creamy, zesty bite!