Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect combination of tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and hearty pasta, all wrapped in a creamy sauce. This dish is quick, easy to prepare, and bursting with flavor, making it a great option for busy weeknights or family dinners. The savory garlic, creamy Parmesan sauce, and just the right amount of heat from red pepper flakes (if desired) create a dish that’s comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for a balanced meal, this recipe has it all.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

With only a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Packed with Flavor

The creamy Parmesan sauce, sautéed garlic, and a dash of red pepper flakes create a flavor-packed dish that’s rich and satisfying.

3. Healthy and Nutritious

The broccoli adds a healthy, veggie-packed element to the meal, making it a great way to sneak in some greens while still enjoying a creamy pasta dish.

4. Customizable

You can swap the chicken for other proteins like shrimp or tofu, or add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to suit your preferences.

5. Perfect for Leftovers

This pasta makes great leftovers! The flavors develop even more as it sits, so it’s just as delicious the next day.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
• 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Add extra garlic to boost the flavor and make the sauce even more garlicky.
• Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo: For an even richer sauce, use full-fat heavy cream and add extra Parmesan for a true Alfredo-style dish.
• Spicy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for protein, and load up on extra veggies.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink to keep it tender and juicy.
• Steam or Blanch the Broccoli: You can steam or blanch the broccoli ahead of time for ease. If you blanch it, make sure to quickly cool it in ice water to keep its bright green color.
• Add More Cheese: If you love cheesy pasta, feel free to add more Parmesan cheese to the sauce for an extra creamy texture.
• Adjust the Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative like oat milk or almond milk.

How to Serve

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a light white wine or iced tea for a refreshing balance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or heat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it up on the stovetop, adding a little more cream or milk as needed to restore the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it seems a bit dry after being refrigerated or frozen, add a little extra cream or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any type of pasta works well in this recipe. Penne, rotini, spaghetti, or even fusilli are all great options.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can skip the chicken and use tofu, mushrooms, or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian version. You can also add more vegetables to make it hearty.

3. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli will work fine. Just be sure to steam or blanch it first to get it tender.

4. Can I make this without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free milk alternative like almond milk.

5. How can I make this spicier?

To make the dish spicier, add more red pepper flakes or stir in some hot sauce or diced fresh chilies.

6. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or even peas for more flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I use a different cheese besides Parmesan?

Yes, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even mozzarella for a different flavor.

8. Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta and chicken just before combining them to ensure the best texture.

9. Can I use boneless, skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They are a bit more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts.

10. How do I reheat this dish without it becoming dry?

Add a small amount of cream or milk when reheating to ensure it stays creamy and moist.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a simple yet satisfying meal that checks all the boxes: delicious, nutritious, and quick to make. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is both comforting and full of flavor.

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