Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Craving a comforting yet nutritious meal? This chicken broccoli pasta recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente pasta in a creamy sauce that’s sure to please. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is quick to prepare and packed with flavors that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process for this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe): Calories: 550, Protein: 35g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Fat: 25g. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Additionally, adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
Serving and Pairings
This chicken broccoli pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain creaminess. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the texture of the broccoli may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not salting the pasta water adequately.
- Overcooking the chicken, making it dry.
- Using cold cream instead of bringing it to room temperature.
- Skipping the step of draining the pasta well.
- Not adjusting seasoning to taste before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor.
- Keep the pasta slightly undercooked to avoid mushiness when reheating.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta.
- Make it spicy by adding more red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the dish to avoid excess moisture.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne, fusilli, or any short pasta works well for this recipe, as they hold the sauce and ingredients nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just combine with freshly cooked pasta right before serving.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and can be portioned out for easy meals throughout the week.
Conclusion
Chicken broccoli pasta is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines protein and vegetables in a creamy sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Enjoy this delightful recipe and make it your new weeknight favorite!
Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta penne or fusilli
- 1 pound chicken breast diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
