Cooking Instructions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water for later use.

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken by seasoning it with salt, black pepper, lemon zest, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Heat 2-4 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and any additional vegetables you want, such as zucchini or squash. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

In a large pan, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, sautéed vegetables, lemon juice, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese if desired.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavors of this dish, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with more flavor and tenderness. Fresh ingredients significantly improve the taste of the dish, making it even more enjoyable.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with various vegetables or pasta shapes to keep the recipe exciting each time you make it. Adding a handful of baby spinach at the end will also boost the nutritional value without compromising taste.