Fun Lunch Friday! La Reine ...

C'est l'heure du déjeuner – bon vendredi !

C'est l'heure du déjeuner – bon vendredi ! and welcome to another edition of Fun Lunch Friday! Let’s dive in and craft a mouth watering bowl of awesomeosity that celebrates fave flavors of garlic, lemon chicken, and the perfect pasta pairing: Butter, garlic, lemon and pesto. I call this dish La Reine, from French which means, “The Queen.”

Why We Love It

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavors: Garlic and lemon bring a punch of flavor to the chicken, while pesto and butter create a luscious base for the pasta.
2. Sun-Dried Tomato flavor smash: These little gems add a tangy surprise that elevates every bite.
3. Quick and Satisfying: Perfect for a busy Friday, this recipe is easy to make yet feels indulgent.

The Recipe

Here’s your quick guide to crafting this lunch for one or two:

Ingredients:

• 3 boneless/skinless chicken thighs, cut into even slices
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup prepared pesto sauce
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienned)
• 12 oz penne pasta or spaghetti, cooked al dente
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for 20-30 minutes.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked, then set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and stir in the pesto sauce. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine Everything: Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated with the sauce. Add the chicken and mix well.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta, top with freshly grated Parmesan if desired, and dig in!

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of sparkling water with a twist of lemon.

Your Fun Friday Moment

You are heading into the weekend. Take a moment to savor the flavors and celebrate the close of another week. Whether you're eating at your desk or gathering with a friend, this recipe is a reminder that lunch can be a joyful experience.

Here’s to flavor-packed Fridays and lunches that make you smile. Bon appétit!

Bryan-David Scott