Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a delicious, creamy dish that brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta. The dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or for when you’re craving something comforting yet satisfying. With the richness of the creamy sauce and the subtle heat from red pepper flakes (optional), this dish strikes the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re looking to get more veggies into your meal or need a family-friendly dinner, this pasta recipe will not disappoint. Plus, it’s versatile enough to swap ingredients depending on your dietary needs or taste preferences.

The combination of grilled or sautéed chicken and steamed broccoli tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce is both flavorful and filling. Whether you serve it with your favorite type of pasta or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is sure to be a new go-to recipe. It’s a balanced dish that satisfies without being overly heavy, perfect for those looking for a hearty, yet lighter dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy nights when you need a meal in a hurry.

2. Creamy and Flavorful

The rich combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully, adding flavor and texture.

3. Nutritious

With lean chicken and broccoli, this dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a wholesome meal for the whole family.

4. Versatile

You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your preferences by changing the type of pasta, adjusting the seasoning, or adding extra veggies.

5. One-Pot Meal

This recipe is made in one pan, which minimizes the clean-up afterward—a big win for busy cooks.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• Broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
• Cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• Salt and pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the dish.
• Swap the Protein: If you prefer, you can use turkey breast, shrimp, or even a vegetarian protein like tofu for a different twist.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add extra veggies such as mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Asiago for a different cheesy flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Broccoli

Add the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 5: Toss with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To avoid dry chicken, cook it until just browned and no longer pink in the center.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a smoother, richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you want a thicker sauce, add a bit more cheese; for a thinner sauce, increase the amount of cream or half-and-half.
• Blanch Broccoli for Bright Color: If you’re steaming or blanching the broccoli, try not to overcook it to preserve its vibrant green color and texture.

How to Serve

• Serve this creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta as a main course on its own, or pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
• You can also serve it with a light white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, for a complete dinner experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.

Freezing

To freeze, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Reheating

When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce, as it may thicken in the refrigerator.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or rotini.

2. Can I make this recipe without cream?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk for a lighter version of the sauce.

3. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the recipe.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, add more Parmesan cheese or cook it for a bit longer to let it reduce.

6. Can I use a different cheese besides Parmesan?

Yes, mozzarella, cheddar, or Asiago are great alternatives if you prefer a different cheese.

7. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to boost the veggie content.

8. How do I prevent the pasta from getting too dry?

To prevent the pasta from drying out, make sure to stir it into the sauce while it’s still warm and add extra cream if needed.

9. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can add extra red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even chopped jalapeños to make it spicier.

10. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu as a substitute for the chicken.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying dish that combines the goodness of chicken, broccoli, and pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. This recipe is customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables, change up the seasonings, or even switch out the protein. No matter how you make it, this dish is sure to be a family favorite that’s both comforting and full of flavor.

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