Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that combines tender, flavorful chicken with vibrant broccoli and creamy Parmesan sauce. The light heat from the red pepper flakes adds a touch of warmth, while the rich creaminess of the sauce perfectly coats the pasta for a satisfying meal. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a well-balanced dish, incorporating protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one plate. It’s a great option for a family-friendly dinner or a weeknight meal when you’re short on time but still craving something comforting.

The combination of chicken, broccoli, and pasta is both healthy and filling, and the Parmesan cream sauce elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can swap ingredients and seasonings to suit your tastes, making it perfect for all kinds of palates. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking to impress friends at a casual dinner gathering, this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

2. Healthy and Balanced

Packed with lean protein from the chicken and nutrients from the broccoli, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.

3. Creamy and Flavorful

The rich cream sauce, paired with the salty Parmesan, gives this pasta a luxurious, comforting texture without being too heavy.

4. Customizable

You can adjust the spices, pasta type, or even swap the chicken for turkey or tofu for a different twist.

5. Kid-Friendly

The mild flavors and creamy sauce make this a hit with kids, while the broccoli adds a healthy touch.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• Broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
• Cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• Salt and pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

1. Add More Veggies: Toss in additional veggies such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
2. Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
3. Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap the regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
4. Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for a smaller amount of Parmesan cheese for a lighter version.
5. Add Bacon or Sausage: For extra flavor, add crispy bacon bits or cooked sausage to the dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken, broccoli, and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated with the sauce. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta immediately. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: Whether you use fresh broccoli or frozen, both work well in this recipe. Just make sure the broccoli is steamed or blanched before adding it to the pasta.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure the chicken remains tender, avoid overcooking it. Once it’s browned and cooked through, remove it from the skillet immediately.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even use a little bit of chicken broth to cut down on the richness.
• Save Some Pasta Water: When draining the pasta, save a small cup of pasta water. It can be added to the sauce to thin it out if it becomes too thick.
• Add a Squeeze of Lemon: For a fresh, bright flavor, squeeze a little lemon juice over the finished dish before serving.

How to Serve

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is delicious on its own but can be paired with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or broth if necessary to bring back the creamy texture.

Freezing

While you can freeze this dish, the cream sauce may slightly change in texture upon thawing. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream to bring back the creaminess.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat and stir in a splash of milk, cream, or broth to help bring the sauce back to life. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for best results.

2. Can I use a different vegetable?

Yes, feel free to use other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or peas instead of broccoli if you prefer.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you prefer will work in this recipe.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut milk or a cashew cream and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the sauce to give it more heat.

6. Can I add bacon to this recipe?

Yes! Crispy bacon adds a delicious flavor to this dish. Simply cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it, and add it to the pasta before serving.

7. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken, pasta, and broccoli in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to make the sauce and assemble the dish.

8. Can I freeze the leftovers?

While you can freeze the leftovers, the cream sauce may separate a bit when reheated. To reheat, you might need to add a little extra cream or broth to bring it back to the right consistency.

9. How can I make this recipe lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese to lighten up the dish without compromising flavor.

10. Can I use store-bought pasta sauce?

While homemade sauce is best, you can certainly substitute store-bought Alfredo or cream sauce for a quicker option.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a perfect comfort food that combines the best of creamy pasta with lean chicken and nutritious broccoli. With a simple list of ingredients and easy steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping for a family gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, it’s a perfect way to enjoy a hearty pasta meal with a healthy twist. Enjoy!

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