Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

In the realm of culinary delights, few dishes exemplify the harmony of flavor and nutrition quite like Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Broccoli. This vibrant dish not only tantalizes the taste buds with its zesty citrus notes and savory garlic undertones but also delivers a wealth of health benefits. By combining lean protein, nutrient-rich vegetables, and wholesome pasta, this recipe emerges as a versatile option suitable for both quick weeknight dinners and special family gatherings.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines lean chicken, nutritious broccoli, and al dente pasta, all enveloped in a tangy lemon-garlic sauce. It's not just visually appealing; it's packed with health benefits too. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish will become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy a flavorful meal that nourishes the body and delights the palate.

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Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

8 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice

2 cups broccoli florets

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 lemon, zested and juiced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Salt and pepper to taste

Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil.

- Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

- For the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot.

- Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving 1 cup of pasta water for later.

Prepare the Chicken:

- While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the lemon zest for added flavor.

- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

- Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.

- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board before slicing into strips.

Sauté Garlic and Combine:

- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the remaining olive oil.

- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Be sure to monitor closely to avoid burning the garlic.

Add Lemon Juice:

- Pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice into the skillet and stir well to combine. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage.

- Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water, stirring continuously to create a light, flavorful sauce.

Combine All Ingredients:

- Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet.

- Toss everything together gently until the pasta and broccoli are well coated with the lemon-garlic sauce. Top with the sliced chicken for added texture and flavor.

Finish & Serve:

- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, the remaining lemon zest, and freshly chopped parsley over the dish.

- Toss lightly to combine, adjusting the seasoning with extra salt and pepper as necessary to taste.

Garnish and Enjoy:

- Serve the pasta hot, ensuring each plate has a generous portion of chicken and broccoli.

- For an elevated presentation, garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan. Enjoy this zesty meal ready to delight your taste buds!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings