How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

A Delicious and Easy One-Pan Meal

Chicken and broccoli pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente pasta in a creamy or light garlic sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal, as it requires simple ingredients and can be made in under 30 minutes. This dish is versatile—whether you prefer a creamy Alfredo-style sauce, a zesty lemon-garlic butter, or a light olive oil-based dressing, you can tailor it to your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pan.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Customizable: Works with different types of pasta and sauces.
• Kid-Friendly: A delicious way to sneak in vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or 1 cup chicken broth for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for a fresh kick)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets.
• Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later use.

2. Cook the Chicken

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
• Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the heavy cream (or chicken broth for a lighter version) and bring to a simmer.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

4. Combine Everything

• Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back into the skillet.
• Toss everything together until well-coated in the sauce.
• If desired, squeeze in fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.

Variations

• Creamy Alfredo: Swap the heavy cream with Alfredo sauce for a richer taste.
• Light and Fresh: Use olive oil and chicken broth instead of cream for a healthier version.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar for extra cheesiness.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended for creamy versions, but if using an olive oil-based sauce, freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce.

FAQs

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, store the sauce separately and mix it in when reheating.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Toss the drained pasta with a bit of olive oil before adding it to the sauce.

What other vegetables can I add?

Mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus make great additions.

How do I make this more flavorful?

Use homemade chicken broth, fresh herbs, and extra garlic for a richer taste.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken saves time and works great.

What’s a good side dish for this pasta?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the dish well.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it.

Conclusion

Chicken and broccoli pasta is an easy, delicious meal perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Plus, it’s highly customizable, making it a go-to dinner option. Try different variations, add your favorite seasonings, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

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