Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a creamy sauce. The flavors come together beautifully, with the mild taste of chicken and the slight bitterness of broccoli balanced by a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner, providing a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress guests, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine
This recipe is inspired by classic Italian pasta dishes, offering a comforting combination of chicken and broccoli with a creamy sauce. It’s a perfect fusion of flavors and textures, ideal for a quick, satisfying meal.
Full List of Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. -
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. -
Sauté Garlic and Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Add the heavy cream (or milk) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce starts to thicken. -
Add the Broccoli and Cheese:
Stir in the steamed or blanched broccoli and the grated parmesan cheese. Continue to cook, stirring, until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. -
Serve:
Serve the Chicken Broccoli Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. You can also add extra grated parmesan on top if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 10%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Pasta dishes like Chicken Broccoli Pasta are popular for their versatility, combining easily available ingredients to create a satisfying meal. The combination of chicken, broccoli, and pasta is a classic, often seen in various forms in Italian-American cuisine. The creamy sauce adds richness, while the broccoli offers a burst of nutrition, making this dish both delicious and balanced.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The creamy sauce and parmesan cheese give the dish a rich, comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and broccoli.
- Versatile: You can swap the chicken for other proteins like shrimp or turkey, and add other vegetables to suit your taste.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli, this dish is a well-rounded, healthy meal.
Health Benefits
- Chicken: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps with muscle repair and supports the immune system.
- Broccoli: Broccoli is loaded with vitamins C, K, and fiber, supporting immunity and digestive health.
- Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan provides calcium for strong bones and teeth and protein for muscle repair.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in healthy fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a light and refreshing side.
- With Garlic Bread: Pair with a slice of garlic bread or toasted baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
- For Extra Vegetables: Add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the pasta for more nutrition and flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and adds more flavor than pre-grated cheese.
- Make It Spicy: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top before serving.
Variations to Try
- Creamy Pesto Version: Add a couple of tablespoons of pesto to the creamy sauce for an herby, extra flavorful twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, peas, or roasted red peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.
Conclusion
Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a perfect combination of tender chicken, hearty broccoli, and creamy pasta, making it a satisfying and delicious meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal to impress your guests, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stove, adding a little water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary. -
Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat it on the stovetop, adding a little extra liquid to maintain the creamy texture. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella, gouda, or a mix of cheeses, for a different flavor profile. -
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Be sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess water from watering down the sauce. -
Can I make this pasta dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a vegetarian version. -
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Yes, feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added flavor and nutrition. -
Can I use a different type of protein instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option. -
How can I make this pasta spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick. -
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any type of pasta works, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little extra liquid if needed to keep it creamy.
Enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Pasta!