Description
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a zesty, comforting dish that combines tender seared chicken with a velvety garlic cream sauce and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. Bursting with lemon flavor and rich garlic notes, it’s a family-friendly dinner recipe that’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin or pounded flat)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Zest of 1 lemon
- For the Pasta & Sauce:
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8 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
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1 tablespoon butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon zest.
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Sear the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add liquids: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Flavor the sauce: Add Parmesan, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
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Combine: Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.
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Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
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For extra lemon flavor, add a splash of white wine or a bit more lemon zest.
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You can use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
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Substitute bowtie pasta with penne or fettuccine if preferred.
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Add baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American