Indulge in the comforting and flavorful combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal for family gatherings, this dish offers a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The rich and velvety sauce complements the chicken and broccoli beautifully, creating a satisfying and delicious meal that everyone will love. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this recipe is a must-have in your culinary repertoire!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- Protein and Vegetables:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets (about 300g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne or your favorite pasta
- Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water to blanch them.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli together, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter.
- Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the butter and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to combine everything thoroughly.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
- Divide the creamy chicken and broccoli pasta among serving plates.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- With a Side Salad: Pair the pasta with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add a crisp contrast to the creamy dish.
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or crusty baguette slices to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrition and variety.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy flavors.
Cooking Tips:
- Chicken Preparation: For juicier chicken, avoid overcooking by monitoring closely. Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if cooked too long.
- Broccoli Texture: Blanching the broccoli in the pasta water helps retain its vibrant color and crisp-tender texture.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more pasta water if it becomes too thick. Conversely, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken if needed.
- Cheese Selection: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Herb Enhancements: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an extra layer of flavor and freshness.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting immune health and digestion.
- Whole Grains: Pasta provides carbohydrates for energy, and choosing whole-grain varieties can increase fiber intake.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and butter contribute to the creamy texture and provide healthy fats necessary for various bodily functions.
- Dairy: Parmesan cheese and heavy cream add calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Not gluten-free due to the all-purpose pasta. Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
- Dairy: Contains dairy from Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based alternatives like dairy-free cream and vegan Parmesan.
- Nut-Free: Yes, naturally nut-free.
- Low-Carb: Not low-carb due to the pasta and heavy cream. Can be adapted by using low-carb pasta alternatives and reducing the amount of cream.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
- Freezing: Freeze the pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Reheating Tips: To maintain the creamy texture, reheat the pasta on low heat, stirring frequently, and add liquid as needed to loosen the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich and Creamy: The luscious sauce envelops the chicken and broccoli, creating a decadent yet comforting meal.
- Balanced Nutrition: Combines protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates for a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights without compromising on flavor.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or additional proteins to suit your taste preferences.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys a delicious and hearty meal.
Conclusion:
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quintessential comfort food that brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a rich, velvety sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. Its harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes it a versatile and beloved dish suitable for any occasion, from casual dinners to special gatherings. Easy to prepare and packed with essential nutrients, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your meal planning. Embrace the comforting goodness of creamy pasta and savor every delicious bite with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
- Yes, fettuccine, spaghetti, or bow-tie pasta work well. Choose your favorite pasta shape for varied textures.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the sour cream and Parmesan. Store in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
- How can I make this dish healthier?
- Use whole-grain or high-fiber pasta, reduce the amount of heavy cream, and add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
- Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken. Cook it thoroughly before adding to the sauce.
- Is it necessary to blanch the broccoli with the pasta?
- Blanching ensures the broccoli is cooked to the perfect tenderness without overcooking. However, you can steam or sauté it separately if preferred.
- Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
- Yes, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy milk like almond milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less creamy.
- How do I prevent the sauce from curdling when adding sour cream?
- Lower the heat to medium-low before adding the sour cream and stir gently. Avoid bringing the sauce to a boil after adding the cream.
- Can I add vegetables like peas or spinach to the pasta?
- Absolutely! Adding peas, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
- Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella can be used for varied flavors and textures.
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, using pre-cooked or leftover chicken saves time. Ensure the chicken is shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces before adding to the sauce.