Looking for a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect solution! This creamy, cheesy pasta combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a luscious sauce that comes together in just under 30 minutes. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 300g), diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (about 200g)
- 300g pasta (penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (about 15ml)
- 2 cloves garlic (about 6g), minced
- ½ cup heavy cream (about 120ml)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50g)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (about 1g)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (about 14g)
- ¼ cup chicken broth (about 60ml)
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 4-5 minutes until they become tender but still crisp. If needed, add a splash of water to help steam the broccoli. Once cooked, set the broccoli aside with the chicken.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly. Add the chicken and broccoli back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well mixed. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to reach the desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
📊 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
💡 Tips & Tricks for the Best Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
- Perfect pasta: Don’t overcook your pasta. It should be al dente, meaning firm to the bite. If it’s too soft, it won’t hold up well in the creamy sauce.
- Creamy sauce: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. The sauce will be a bit less rich but still delicious.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese options: Swap the Parmesan for a combination of cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different twist on the flavor.
- Make it ahead: This pasta dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little extra cream or chicken broth when reheating to keep it creamy.
🧡 From My Kitchen to Yours
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a true weeknight winner. It’s quick, easy, and full of comforting flavors that your family will love. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce makes this dish a complete meal in one. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can add extra veggies or use different cheeses to make it your own.
This dish is the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and pasta, ensuring that every bite is satisfying and wholesome. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or making a quick meal for yourself, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the way to go!
Leave a Reply