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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade
Start by preparing the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the fridge to allow the flavors to soak in.
2. Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is marinating, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to add later if needed for the sauce.
3. Sauté the Asparagus
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary and heat over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Asparagus
Add the cooked bowtie pasta, sautéed asparagus, and sliced chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce and all ingredients are evenly distributed. If needed, adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper.
7. Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well mixed and heated through, transfer the dish to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus Creamy Bowtie Pasta
- Marinate the Chicken Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour (or overnight) in the fridge. This will allow the lemon and garlic to penetrate the meat more deeply.
- Use Fresh Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives the best flavor and texture, but if it’s not in season, you can use frozen asparagus as a substitute.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make it Lighter: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk and use less cheese.
- Grill the Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken instead of pan-searing it for an added depth of taste.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of lemon, garlic, and cream creates a vibrant, refreshing, yet rich sauce that beautifully complements the savory chicken and delicate asparagus. Bowtie pasta is the perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce while providing a satisfying bite. The contrast of the crispy chicken with the tender pasta and vegetables makes for a balanced, well-rounded meal that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus Creamy Bowtie Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion—whether you’re looking to treat your family to a comforting meal or impress your guests with something flavorful yet simple. With a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can create a stunning dinner that bursts with fresh, zesty flavors and creamy goodness. Try it tonight and elevate your weeknight meals to a whole new level of deliciousness!
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