Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This creamy lemon chicken and bow tie pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, satisfyingly creamy, and comes together in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste, making it a go-to for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Reduce the liquid by half, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce slightly thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat in the creamy lemon sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add some veggies: Include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor. This makes it a perfect healthy meal option.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it cheesy: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add a sprinkle of mozzarella before serving.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish is great for meal prepping! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This creamy lemon chicken and bow tie pasta recipe is a simple yet delicious dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. It's a great example of quick dinner ideas that are both tasty and satisfying. Enjoy this easy recipe and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!