creamy lemon-pepper bow tie pasta

The weather is finally getting cold here, and nothing warms us up like a creamy pasta dish.  This one is incredibly easy and makes a beautiful side or main dish.  The flavors are also fantastic and can be easily customized to meet your individual tastes.  You must try it!

Creamy Lemon-Pepper Bow Tie Pasta

• 1 box bow tie pasta
• 1 lb. chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
• lemon-pepper seasoning
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 T. canola oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh or frozen vegetables
• 2/3 cup shredded carrots
• 3 oz. cream cheese
• 2 t. lemon juice
• salt, to taste
• heavy cream (optional)

Cook pasta according to package instructions.  Meanwhile, sprinkle chicken liberally with lemon-pepper.  In a large nonstick skillet, stir fry the chicken and garlic in oil until the chicken is cooked through.  Remove and keep warm.  Add broth, vegetables, cream cheese, and lemon juice to the skillet; cook and stir until cheese is melted.  Drain pasta.  Add pasta, chicken, and salt to vegetable mixture; heat through.  If desired, add heavy cream to thin consistency of sauce.