Lemon Herb Chicken Bowtie Pasta

I love making Lemon Herb Chicken Bowtie Pasta because it brings together bright citrus flavors, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta in one comforting dish. The fresh herbs and lemon create a light and refreshing sauce that coats every piece of bowtie pasta beautifully. I enjoy serving this meal when I want something flavorful that still feels simple and fresh.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it is easy to prepare while still tasting rich and satisfying. The lemon adds a refreshing touch while the herbs and garlic create deep savory flavor. I also appreciate how quickly the meal comes together, making it perfect for busy evenings or relaxed family dinners.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 ounces bowtie pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed or sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. I start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until tender.
2. I reserve a little pasta water before draining the pasta.
3. I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. I season the chicken with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and dried basil.
5. I cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked.
6. I stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
7. I pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
8. I add the butter and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
9. I toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet until evenly coated.
10. I stir in parmesan cheese and add reserved pasta water if needed.
11. I garnish the pasta with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

I usually make about 4 servings with this recipe. The preparation time takes around 15 minutes, while the cooking time is approximately 20 minutes. I can have everything ready in about 35 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness and color. When I want a creamier version, I stir a little heavy cream into the sauce. I also enjoy using shrimp instead of chicken for a lighter seafood option.

storage/reheating

I store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce smooth and flavorful. I avoid overheating the chicken so it stays tender.

FAQs

Can I use another pasta shape?

I sometimes use penne, rotini, or fettuccine when I want a different pasta texture.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

I cook the chicken over medium heat and remove it as soon as it is fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I occasionally prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then cook fresh pasta before serving.

What herbs work best in this recipe?

I enjoy using parsley, basil, oregano, and thyme for fresh flavor.

Can I make this dish spicy?

I like adding red pepper flakes for a little extra heat and flavor.

Conclusion

I enjoy making Lemon Herb Chicken Bowtie Pasta because it is fresh, comforting, and packed with bright flavor. The tender chicken, citrusy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta create a balanced meal that feels both light and satisfying. I also appreciate how flexible the recipe can be with different vegetables, proteins, and herbs.

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