30-Minute Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta

Okay, gather ’round, friend! Let me tell you about something truly special: my Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta. Oh, the memories tied to this dish! I remember one particularly hectic week when the kids had back-to-back soccer practices, and I was juggling work deadlines like a circus performer. Dinner was a looming stressor until I remembered this gem. I threw it together in under 30 minutes, and the aroma alone had everyone racing to the table.

The bright, zesty lemon, the savory garlic, and the tender chicken…it’s a symphony of flavors that just sings! My youngest, who’s usually a picky eater, devoured two helpings and even asked for it in his lunchbox the next day! Honestly, finding a recipe that everyone loves and that doesn’t keep me chained to the stove is like striking gold. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but is secretly easy.

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta is my weeknight superhero, always ready to save the day. If you’re tired of the same old dinner routine and craving something fresh, flavorful, and quick, you’ve come to the right place. Trust me, your family will thank you. Let’s get cooking and bring some sunshine to your dinner table with this incredible Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta. You’ll find it to be an absolute lifesaver.

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta truly has become a family staple. It’s simple to make, which is why I love making this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta. Get ready for a winner of a dish; this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta is sure to impress! Okay, let’s get to it and I can show you how to make this simple Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta. You’re going to love it!I promise you, you’ll be making this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta recipe for years to come.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta. I always keep these ingredients on hand, because you never know when you’ll need a quick, delicious meal!

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• 1 pound Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): I love the shape of bowtie pasta; it catches all the delicious sauce! Any short pasta will work if you can’t find bowties. We’ve used penne and rotini with great success!
• 1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually buy a large pack from Costco and freeze individual portions. Make sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic is key for that pungent, irresistible flavor. I keep a jar of pre-minced garlic in the fridge for emergencies!
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce incredibly rich and creamy. If you’re watching calories, you can substitute half-and-half, but trust me, the heavy cream is worth it.
• 1/4 cup Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is always best for that vibrant, citrusy kick! Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite as bright.
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the lemon and garlic perfectly. I always have a container of Parmesan in the fridge.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic. You can substitute with any cooking oil you like, but olive oil adds a nice flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: Adds a touch of Italian flair. Fresh oregano would be even better if you have it on hand!
• Salt and Pepper to taste: Don’t be afraid to season generously! Salt and pepper really bring out the flavors of the dish.
• Optional: Fresh Parsley, chopped: For garnish. Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Budget Tip: To save money, buy chicken breasts in bulk when they’re on sale and freeze them. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with a cheaper hard cheese.

Storage Hack: Store leftover Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also freeze it for longer storage, but the pasta may become a bit softer after thawing.The combination of lemon and garlic is fantastic in this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta, step-by-step. Don’t worry; I’ll be right here with you!

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold and will help the sauce cling to the pasta. It is important to keep an eye on it. Overcooked pasta will be mushy and won’t absorb the flavor of the sauce as well.
2. Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
3. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, or it will become bitter. I learned that the hard way when I first started cooking! Burnt garlic can ruin the whole dish, so keep a close watch.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens! The sauce should be rich and creamy, coating the back of a spoon.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water helps to create a silky, emulsified sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. Fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

Cooking Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente pasta holds its shape better and has a better texture.

Personal Experience: One time, I accidentally added too much lemon juice, and the sauce was too tart. I balanced it out by adding a pinch of sugar. Crisis averted!

Family Reaction: My kids always cheer when I make this dish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! They often ask for extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Meal Prep Insight: You can chop the chicken and mince the garlic ahead of time to save time during the week. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator.

Leftover Advice: Leftover Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta is great for lunch the next day. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little extra cream or pasta water if it seems dry.With these instructions, you’ll be making amazing Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta in no time.

Serving Ideas

So, you’ve made this delicious Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta – now what? Here’s how we enjoy it at our house:

• Side Dishes: We love serving this pasta with a simple side salad. A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, also pair well. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta, creating a balanced meal.
• Presentation: I like to plate the pasta in a shallow bowl and sprinkle it with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. A lemon wedge on the side adds a nice touch. A visually appealing dish is always more enticing.
• Occasions: This is a great dish for weeknight dinners, but it’s also fancy enough to serve to guests. It’s perfect for potlucks or casual get-togethers. Its versatility makes it a go-to recipe for many occasions.
• Leftover Transformations: If you have leftovers, try adding them to a frittata or omelet for a tasty breakfast. You can also use them as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or zucchini. This helps to reduce food waste and creates new and exciting meals.
• Portion Sizes: I usually estimate about 1.5 cups of pasta per person. My husband and older son usually eat more, while my younger son eats less. Adjust portion sizes based on individual appetites.
• Family Feedback: My family raves about the creamy, lemony sauce. They love how the chicken is tender and flavorful. It’s definitely one of their favorite pasta dishes. Positive feedback is always a great motivator to keep cooking!

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta is great for a crowd. You can always add a side salad to this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta. The key is to use fresh ingredients in this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta.It’s just the best Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta recipe ever.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While I love bowtie pasta for its shape and texture, you can use any short pasta you like. Penne, rotini, and farfalle are all great options. The key is to choose a pasta shape that will hold the sauce well.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can easily make this vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding some sautéed vegetables, like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Tofu would also be a great addition. Sauté the vegetables with garlic and oregano for extra flavor.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free? It’s a bit trickier, but yes. You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream. Just be aware that it may change the flavor slightly. You can also use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. Experiment with different dairy-free options to find what works best for your taste.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce, then add the pasta. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights.
5. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together? To prevent the pasta from sticking together, toss it with a little olive oil after draining. You can also add it directly to the sauce while it’s still warm. This helps to coat the pasta and prevent it from clumping.
6. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh, but use about half the amount. For example, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, use 1 tablespoon of dried parsley. Dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor than fresh herbs.
7. What if my sauce is too thick? If your sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also add a splash of cream or chicken broth. The pasta water helps to thin the sauce while adding extra flavor.
8. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like to this dish. Spinach, peas, and sun-dried tomatoes are all great additions. Get creative and experiment with different vegetable combinations.
9. Is this dish kid-friendly? Yes, this is a very kid-friendly dish! My kids love it. You can cut the chicken into smaller pieces for younger children. The mild flavors and creamy sauce appeal to most children.

If you follow all the steps in this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta recipe, you’re sure to have a wonderful dish. My kids love it when I make this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta! This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta is such a winner!

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta isn’t just a recipe to me; it’s a reminder of busy weeknights, happy faces around the dinner table, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with my family. It’s a dish that’s been tweaked and perfected over the years, based on my family’s preferences and my own cooking adventures. I hope it brings the same comfort and joy to your home.

Before you rush off to the kitchen, here are a few final tips:

• Don’t be afraid to experiment! Cooking is all about trying new things and finding what works best for you.
• Taste as you go. Seasoning is key to a flavorful dish.
• Enjoy the process! Cooking should be fun and relaxing, not stressful.

My family also loves it when I add a little bit of red pepper flakes to add a little bit of a kick to this Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta. I’ve also tried adding different types of cheese, like mozzarella or provolone, for a different flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Now, go forth and create some magic in your kitchen! And don’t forget to come back and tell me how it turned out. I’d love to hear your feedback and any variations you try. Happy cooking! This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta recipe will quickly become your favorite. It’s the most simple Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta recipe ever!

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Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta

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This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken and bowtie pasta are coated in a luscious lemon garlic cream sauce.

• Author: Kiera
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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• 1 pound bowtie pasta
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Add the cooked pasta and parsley to the skillet and toss to coat.
7. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.