Non-Asian Chicken and Broccoli

The next set of recipes may be basic for most people but for me, anything using an oven is revolutionary. My parents used the oven to store pots. M said, "This was one of the most delicious dishes not from the continent of Asia."

"Best Broccoli of Your Life"

We had bought a bag of broccoli florets from Costco. There are only 2 of us and there's only so many nights we can eat beef and broccoli stir fry. I found "The Best Broccoli of Your Life" from Amateur Gourmet. And, it was pretty darn good.

- Dry broccoli florets (about 2 big bunches)

- 5 tbsp olive oil

- salt

- pepper

- 4 garlic cloves minced

- 1 lemon

- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic. Layer onto baking sheet and roast in oven for 20 to 25 minutes until some of the florets are browned (I had forgotten the garlic and tossed it in 5 minutes before the end and they were fine). Remove from oven. Toss with lemon zest, lemon juice and cheese. We didn't have any cheese and it was quite delicious without it.

Baked Chicken Thighs

I have been trying to bake chicken thighs for over 3 years and they have been underdone, overdone, too salty, etc. I have finally figured out my oven (25 degrees hotter than what the dial says) and the below recipe.

- 2 tbsp butter

- olive oil

- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

- 1/2 cup flour

- 2 tsp salt

- 1/2 tsp pepper

- 1 tsp spice mix of your choice

Preheat oven 350 degrees.

Heat oil and butter in a skillet. Mix flour, salt, pepper and spices (I used Bouquest Garni) in a plastic bag. Drop chicken thighs in the bag and yes, shake it. Shake off chicken thighs and place in skillet and fry golden brown (don't overcrowd). Place chicken on a baking sheet and put in oven for 30 min - 45 min until done.