Elevate your dinner table with the refreshing flavors of Lemon Basil Pasta. This delightful dish combines tender bow tie pasta with succulent chicken pieces, all coated in a creamy lemon and basil sauce. Topped with a medley of cheeses, fresh herbs, and spinach, this pasta bake is a feast for the senses that’s sure to leave everyone satisfied.

Reason to Try Lemon Basil Pasta

If you’re in search of a satisfying meal that’s both elegant and comforting, this Lemon Basil Pasta is the perfect choice. Bursting with vibrant flavors and textures, this dish offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta recipes. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or at a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its irresistible aroma and taste.

Summary of Ingredients

Bow Tie Pasta: Provides a sturdy and delightful base for the dish.
Chicken Breast: Tender pieces of chicken, seasoned with lemon pepper, add protein and flavor to the pasta bake.
Margarine and Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken and imparting richness to the dish.
Garlic: Adds aromatic flavor to the sauce.
White Wine: Infuses the sauce with depth and complexity.
Sour Cream: Creates a creamy and luscious sauce that coats the pasta.
Fresh Basil: Adds a fragrant and herbaceous note to the dish.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Provides a bright and citrusy flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and cheesy toppings that add richness and decadence to the pasta bake.
Fresh Parsley and Spinach: Fresh herbs and greens that add color, freshness, and nutritional value to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lemon Basil Pasta hot from the oven, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves and lemon zest for a burst of freshness. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, serve alongside garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage Info

Store any leftover Lemon Basil Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Note that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce upon refrigeration, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore moisture.

Techniques or Tips

Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Aim for a slightly firm texture, known as “al dente,” when boiling the pasta.
For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in lemon juice and lemon pepper for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
When making the sauce, be sure to stir constantly to prevent the sour cream from curdling.

Variation

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini to the pasta for added color and nutrition. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and increase the amount of vegetables. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.

FAQs about Lemon Basil Pasta

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, in place of the bow tie pasta.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook than breast meat.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the casserole dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Bake

Chicken and bow tie pasta baked with a creamy lemon basil sauce, topped with cheese, spinach, and fresh herbs.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Equipment

Ingredients

- 3 cups bow tie pasta
- 1 skinless boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1/4 cup margarine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup torn fresh spinach

Instructions

In a large pot of lightly salted boiling water, cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken with lemon pepper.
In a skillet, melt margarine with olive oil over medium heat. Cook and stir chicken until no longer pink. Remove chicken and place in a casserole dish.
In the same skillet, add garlic, white wine, sour cream, basil, lemon zest, and half of the lemon juice. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the cooked pasta. Spoon mixture over the chicken in the casserole dish. Cover with foil.
Bake for 15 minutes until heated through. Uncover, sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, parsley, spinach, and drizzle with remaining lemon juice. Bake, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes.

Notes

- Ensure chicken is cooked through before adding pasta and sauce.
- Customize by adding additional vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers.
- Let cool slightly before serving to avoid burning.

Keyword Chicken pasta