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Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

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A bright and comforting dish featuring marinated chicken, garlicky warmth, and creamy Parmesan sauce over bowtie pasta.

Ingredients

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  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the lemon marinade and season the chicken. In a small bowl combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, a pinch of salt, a few grinds of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Rub the mixture into both sides of the chicken. Let it marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Sear the chicken. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. When hot, add the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes per side.
  3. Cook the pasta. Bring salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.
  4. Sauté the garlic. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds.
  5. Make the creamy sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until slightly thickened and smooth. If too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.
  6. Combine chicken and pasta. Slice the chicken or keep whole, then return to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss until well coated.
  7. Finish and serve. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Let the chicken rest after searing to keep it juicy. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Creamy sauces do not freeze well.

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