Bright, zesty, and creamy—this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a dinner winner! Tender chicken bites are infused with lemon and garlic, then paired with bowtie pasta tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright & Flavorful: Lemon and garlic add a fresh, zesty kick.
- Creamy & Comforting: A rich, cheesy sauce coats every bite.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Versatile: Perfect as-is or customizable with your favorite veggies.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Chicken Bites:
- Chicken breasts: The protein base, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Olive oil & butter: Adds richness and helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- Garlic: Brings bold, aromatic flavor.
- Lemon juice & zest: Provides a bright, citrusy contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and color.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley: Optional garnish for freshness.
For the Creamy Bowtie Pasta:
- Bowtie pasta (farfalle): Holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Heavy cream & chicken broth: Creates a velvety, flavorful sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a rich, cheesy taste.
- Butter: Enhances the creaminess.
- Salt & pepper: Adjusts seasoning to taste.
- Fresh parsley or basil: Optional, for a fresh finishing touch
Tips and Tricks
- Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Smooth Sauce: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest texture.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
Variations and Customizations
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli to the pasta.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Cheesy Twist: Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
- Bread: Serve with garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or a Caesar salad.
- Wine: Enjoy with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Popular Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or rotini are great alternatives.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter, cream, and cheese alternatives.
4. Can I add more veggies?
Yes, stir in spinach, zucchini, or peas for extra nutrition.