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A perfect harmony of bright citrus and rich cream comes together in this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta. The tender chicken, infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, rests on a bed of perfectly cooked farfalle pasta enveloped in a silky Parmesan cream sauce. This elegant yet approachable dish brings restaurant-quality flavors to your dinner table while keeping preparation simple and straightforward.
I've made this dish countless times, and it never fails to impress. Last summer, I served it at a casual dinner party, and my guests were amazed by how the simple combination of lemon and garlic could transform ordinary chicken and pasta into something so special.
Essential Ingredients Selection
- Chicken Breasts: Choose evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Lemons: Fresh lemons provide both juice and zest for maximum flavor impact.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves offer superior flavor to pre-minced options.
- Bowtie Pasta: The shape catches and holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Heavy Cream: Creates the luxurious base for your pasta sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds depth and richness.
Creating Your Masterpiece
- Marination Magic:
- Combine fresh lemon juice, zest, and minced garlic with dried herbs, allowing the chicken to absorb these bright flavors.
- Perfect Pasta:
- Cook your bowtie pasta in well-salted water until just tender, preserving some cooking water for sauce adjustment.
- Chicken Excellence:
- Sear your marinated chicken until golden brown, developing a flavorful crust while keeping the interior juicy.
- Sauce Creation:
- Build your cream sauce gradually, starting with aromatic onions and garlic before introducing the cream and Parmesan.
- Final Symphony:
- Unite your components, ensuring each pasta bow is generously coated in the silky sauce before topping with the sliced chicken.
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The lemon zest has become my secret weapon in this recipe. I've found that adding a small amount to both the marinade and the cream sauce creates layers of citrus flavor that make this dish truly memorable.
Elegant Serving
Transform this dish into a complete meal by pairing it with roasted asparagus or a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
Creative Variations
Enhance the dish with sautéed mushrooms for earthiness, or add baby spinach to the cream sauce for added color and nutrition.
Perfect Preservation
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream to restore the sauce's silky texture.
After preparing countless pasta dishes, this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta remains one of my favorites for its perfect balance of flavors. The way the bright citrus notes cut through the rich cream sauce creates an elevated dining experience that's still comforting and approachable. Each time I make it, I'm reminded of how simple ingredients, when treated with care, can create something truly extraordinary.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
- Yes, any pasta works well - try penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape.
- → What if my sauce is too thick?
- Thin it out with a little pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
- Yes, rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken works great. Just warm it up in the sauce.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream if needed.
- → Can I make this lighter?
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce won't be as thick and rich.