Description
A flavorful dish combining Cajun spices, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fresh lemon that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. In the last 3 minutes, add the broccoli florets.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
- In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest. Mix in parsley and chives, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
- Serve warm with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with tofu and adjust the seasoning method.
