Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy sauce, creating a comforting meal that’s simple to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, the burst of lemon and garlic flavors will impress your guests and satisfy your family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken.
- Creamy Texture: The addition of Parmesan cheese adds creaminess to the pasta, blending perfectly with the chicken.
- Versatile Meal: Pair it with different vegetables or salads for a complete meal that suits various tastes.
- Kid-Friendly: The delicious flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Tools and Preparation
To make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet helps evenly cook the chicken and allows room for the sauce to develop.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Using a pot specifically for pasta ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in this recipe.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
For the Pasta
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously and then add the bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Once melted, add chicken breasts.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta back into the skillet along with grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Serve
Slice chicken breasts and serve over creamy Parmesan bowtie pasta. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top for added flavor. Enjoy!
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Bowtie is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Pairing the pasta with complementary sides or garnishes can elevate its flavors and presentation.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra citrusy kick.
Pairing Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a comforting touch.
- Green Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing pairs well and balances the richness of the dish.
Serving Temperature
- Warm: This dish is best served warm to keep the flavors vibrant and enjoyable.
How to Perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie
To ensure your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Bowtie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will give you the best flavor in your dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until just done to keep it juicy; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if necessary.
- Add Cheese Gradually: Stir in Parmesan cheese slowly for better creaminess and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie
Pairing side dishes with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Bowtie can make your meal complete. Here are some excellent options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, complementing the chicken nicely.
- Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings out earthy flavors that pair well with pasta.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine and creamy dressing, balancing the richness of your main dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and richness beside your chicken.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini seasoned with herbs adds a smoky flavor that enhances your meal’s overall taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t forget to salt the pasta water. Not salting the water before boiling pasta can lead to bland flavors. Use a generous amount of salt to enhance the taste of your bowtie pasta.
- Skip skipping the resting time. Cutting into the chicken too soon can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking for better moisture retention.
- Be cautious about not measuring ingredients accurately. Inaccurate measurements can disrupt the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Avoid using low-quality cheese. Using fresh, high-quality Parmesan cheese enhances flavor and creaminess in the dish. Opt for freshly grated cheese instead of pre-grated versions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie
- Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie?
This dish features tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce, served over creamy Parmesan bowtie pasta.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
How can I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and makes for convenient lunches throughout the week.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to suit your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Bowtie is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or different cheeses. This dish promises a delightful meal that will impress family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors!
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Parmesan Bowtie is a delightful and quick dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. This recipe features tender chicken breasts bathed in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, served atop creamy bowtie pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this meal combines simplicity and sophistication, making it an instant family favorite. With its rich, savory notes complemented by the brightness of lemon, you can easily impress your guests while satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil water in a pot, add salt, and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chicken.
- Sear chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping any browned bits from the skillet.
- Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, mixing well to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Slice the chicken and serve on top of pasta with extra sauce drizzled over.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if desired. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
