Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta is a bright, fresh, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The tangy lemon and savory garlic perfectly complement tender chicken and al dente bowtie pasta, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. It’s light yet filling, easy to make, and comes together quickly with pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: extra lemon wedges for serving
Directions
- Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter. Let the mixture simmer for 1–2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Toss until evenly combined and the cheese has melted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Serves: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp or grilled tofu instead of chicken.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the lemon garlic chicken over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.
What type of pasta can I use instead of bowtie?
Penne, rotini, or fusilli are great substitutes.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Omit the Parmesan and butter or use dairy-free alternatives.
Conclusion
Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta is a fast and flavorful meal that brings freshness and comfort to your table. It’s easy to customize, packed with bright citrus flavor, and sure to become a repeat favorite in your weekly dinner rotation. Serve it warm, and enjoy every zesty, garlicky bite!
more recipes here