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Lemon Chicken with Broccoli & Bow Ties

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Ingredients
  

  • 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.

Instructions
 

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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!