Looking for a simple yet delicious meal to whip up on a busy weeknight? Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect solution! Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and hearty pasta come together in a creamy, savory sauce that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, and the best part? Minimal cleanup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Packed with Protein and Veggies: A balanced meal with chicken, broccoli, and pasta.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Customizable: Switch up the sauce, pasta, or protein to fit your taste.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
Ingredients:
- Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces for a juicy protein base.
- Broccoli: Fresh or frozen florets add color, crunch, and essential nutrients.
- Pasta: Penne, rotini, or spaghetti — choose your favorite shape.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic.
- Garlic: Minced for a fragrant, savory depth of flavor.
- Chicken Broth or Cream: For a rich, creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but it makes the sauce extra creamy and flavorful.
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste.
Directions:
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- In the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth (or cream) and stir, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess, if desired.
- Taste and Serve:
- Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cheese, if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips:
- For Extra Creaminess: Swap chicken broth for half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Shred leftover or rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep.
- Add Spice: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Recipe Variations:
- More Veggies: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a more colorful dish.
- Change Up the Protein: Try turkey, shrimp, or tofu in place of chicken.
- Swap the Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit dietary preferences.
- Cheesy Twist: Mozzarella or cheddar cheese can bring a fun variation to the dish.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water will complement the flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Absolutely! Just thaw and drain it first before adding it to the skillet.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
- Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead and storing for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
- Penne, rotini, or farfalle work wonderfully, but spaghetti is just as delicious.
How do I make it creamy without heavy cream?
- Add a splash of milk or stir in cream cheese for a lighter yet creamy texture.
Conclusion:
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate quick and comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this dish offers a satisfying blend of protein, veggies, and creamy sauce that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite!
Related Recipes You Might Like:
- Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Comforting Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta
- Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American/Italian
This is a one-pot meal that delivers flavor and convenience all in one, perfect for a busy night when you need something fast but satisfying!
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. In the last 3-4 minutes, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine the Dish:
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through. Optionally, add red pepper flakes for spice and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve:
- Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta warm, with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes:
- For a quicker option, use leftover or rotisserie chicken.
- You can substitute the heavy cream for low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
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