Go Back

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

A delightful dish featuring golden-brown chicken breasts infused with garlic, served over bowtie pasta in a rich, creamy lemon sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Seasoning
  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts They offer a tender, juicy foundation for this dish.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil To achieve golden-brown chicken while adding healthy fats.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Adds a refreshing, citrusy brightness.
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Provides tangy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Complements lemon and garlic.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Pasta and Creamy Sauce
  • 8 oz bowtie pasta The star of the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Additional garlic flavor in the sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Creates the luscious creaminess.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Imparts rich flavor to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Reinforces the lemony delight.
  • to taste salt and pepper For proper seasoning.

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and save about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Cook the Chicken
  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and lemon zest. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove chicken and rest.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce
  1. Toss cooked pasta into the creamy sauce until coated. Slice chicken and layer on top of the pasta.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish and serve hot with an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

Marinating the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs can enhance the flavor. For lighter options, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or broth. Adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes can boost nutrition.