Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Looking for a delectable, satisfying dinner idea? This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus Creamy Bowtie Pasta recipe is a surefire hit! Packed with tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and a rich creamy sauce, it’s a meal that balances savory flavors with a bright citrusy kick. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is both simple and sophisticated.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus Creamy Bowtie Pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice during cooking for extra flavor. Remove from the skillet, cover with foil, and let rest.
2. Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus to the boiling water. This ensures it’s perfectly tender-crisp. Drain both the pasta and asparagus, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Add Parmesan cheese and lemon zest, stirring until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
4. Combine Everything
Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips. Add the pasta and asparagus to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat, using the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed. Top with sliced chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and sprinkle with additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmony of citrusy, garlicky, and creamy flavors!
Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and asparagus enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Save Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a lifesaver for thinning out creamy sauces.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach make great additions!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced Flavors: The citrusy lemon complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy nights.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for adults and kids alike.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, veggies, and carbs for a wholesome meal.
FAQs
How do you prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cook chicken over medium heat and let it rest after cooking to seal in juices.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, linguine, or fettuccine are excellent alternatives.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or Greek yogurt can be used, but the sauce may be less rich.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best flavor, prepare the sauce fresh and toss with reheated pasta and chicken.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the citrus and cream.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, just blanch it before adding to the dish to retain its vibrant color and texture.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a go-to recipe for food lovers who want a meal that’s both elegant and approachable. Bursting with flavor and effortless to prepare, it’s a dish you’ll make over and over again. Perfect for cozy nights at home or impressing dinner guests, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite. Try it today and savor the deliciousness!
