Lemon Chicken with Broccoli and Bow Ties: A Family Favorite

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare and flavorful, you’re in for a treat. Lemon Chicken with Broccoli and Bow Ties is a recipe I’ve been making for years, and it’s my husband’s favorite! Not only does it check all the boxes for a quick weeknight dinner, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients. Plus, it’s a meal that feels special enough for a Sunday dinner or hosting guests.

In this post, I’ll share how to whip up this delectable dish, tips to make it even healthier, and why it has become a staple in our home.

Why Lemon Chicken with Broccoli and Bow Ties is a Winner

• Balanced Nutrition: The chicken provides lean protein, the broccoli provides fiber, and the pasta provides wholesome carbohydrates.
• Flavor-Packed: The tangy lemon and garlic flavors bring a refreshing zest to the plate.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the mild but flavorful taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It keeps well for leftovers, making it perfect for busy weeks.

Related Read: My TOP 10 EAsy Sourdough Recipes For Beginners

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish:

• 12 oz. bow-tie pasta (farfalle)
• Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen work perfectly.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces. (Optional: Store-bought Rotisserie Chicken, shredded or diced) 
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons (zest and juice)
• 3 Tbsp Olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that enhances the dish.
• 3 Tbsp Butter
• 1/4 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory touch to the meal. Save some for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like parsley for garnish.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Toss the broccoli florets into the pot 2-3 minutes before the pasta finishes cooking to keep them tender without overcooking them. Once done, drain the pasta and broccoli and set them aside.

2. Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken until golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Roast the Pine Nuts

In a dry pan over low heat, saute’ the pine nuts. Monitor closely and stir frequently so they do not burn. Remove them from the heat once you smell the nutty aroma. Once lightly golden in color, place them in a dish and set aside. 

4. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

Add olive oil, butter, and minced garlic to the same skillet over medium heat—Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Next, stir in the lemon juice and zest and turn the heat low while it simmers for a minute to combine the flavors.

5. Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce. Toss the ingredients together, ensuring the sauce evenly coats the pasta and broccoli. Add the pine nuts and parmesan cheese and mix gently. If the dish seems dry, add olive oil or a splash of pasta water to moisten it.

6. Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta with more freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), and a handful of fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy your easy, healthy, and delicious meal!

Healthy Tips and Ingredient Swaps

Whole Wheat Pasta:

Swap regular bow-tie pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free varieties to boost the fiber content and add more nutrients. Whole wheat pasta has a nuttier flavor and is packed with more vitamins, making it a fantastic option for those wanting to make a more wholesome dish.

Add More Veggies:

While broccoli is an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, feel free to throw in extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can either sauté them with the chicken or steam them with the broccoli to give the dish even more color and nutrients.

Lighter Sauce:

While olive oil is a heart-healthy fat, you can reduce it by substituting part with a vegetable or chicken broth splash to keep the dish flavorful and moist without adding too many calories. You may also omit the butter if you prefer. 

Opt for Chicken Thighs:

If you prefer a juicier cut of meat, you can use skinless, boneless chicken thighs. They are slightly higher in fat than breasts but offer a richer flavor. Just be sure to trim off any excess fat.

Dairy-Free Option:

For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, you can skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast is also an excellent choice for adding that cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.

Related Read: Fresh and Flavorful Summer Green Bean Salad Recipe

Why This Recipe is a Go-To in Our Home

After years of making Lemon Chicken with Broccoli and Bow Ties, it’s clear why this dish has become such a hit. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday dinner, this recipe delivers flavor without the fuss. My husband always requests it, and even after all these years, it’s still one of his all-time favorites!

I love how versatile it is—you can change the veggies, adjust the sauce to your liking, and even add a bit of extra heat if you’re feeling adventurous. The lemon and garlic sauce is light but flavorful, making it feel like a fresh, gourmet meal without the hassle of spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s also a meal that aligns with our commitment to eating healthier. Simple ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and olive oil provide an outstanding balance of protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. The bow-tie pasta adds a fun and playful touch that the whole family loves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this recipe and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store the pasta, chicken, and broccoli in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet with olive oil or broth.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

While pasta dishes can sometimes change texture when frozen, this one holds up pretty well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Q: Can I use other types of pasta?

Definitely! While bow-tie pasta is fun and adds a bit of visual appeal, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, rotini, or even spaghetti work well in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

For a good reason, Lemon Chicken with Broccoli and Bow Ties has become a family favorite in our home. It’s easy, healthy, and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight meal or a dish that will impress your guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. Give it a try, and it might also become your family’s favorite!

Don’t forget to make it your own—swap in your favorite veggies, experiment with whole wheat pasta, or add a pinch of spice to suit your taste. However you choose to make it, this recipe will surely bring smiles to the table.

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