Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Looking for a comforting yet flavorful meal? Dive into the world of Chicken Broccoli Pasta! This dish features a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta tossed in a flavorful sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and rich flavors.
Who is This Recipe For?
This Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe is perfect for busy individuals and families looking for a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s also ideal for anyone craving a comforting pasta dish with a nutritious twist. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, you’ll appreciate the ease of preparation and the delicious results.
Why It’s Great
What sets this Chicken Broccoli Pasta apart is its combination of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. The tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and al dente pasta create a harmonious balance of textures, while the savory sauce ties everything together. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients and spices.
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Cutting board and knife
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
Leftover Storage:
- Store any leftover Chicken Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or olive oil to prevent drying out.
Recipe Swaps and Variations:
- Substitute penne pasta with your favorite pasta shape, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, for a different texture.
- Experiment with different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian version.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.
Food Pairings
For a complete meal, serve Chicken Broccoli Pasta with a side of garlic bread or Olive Garden salad dressed with vinaigrette. Pair it with a glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the flavors of the dish and enhance the dining experience.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? A: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative. Simply thaw and drain before adding to the skillet.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the dish? A: Of course! Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
Conclusion
Indulge in a culinary delight with Chicken Broccoli Pasta. With its wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed for a cozy dinner at home or served at a gathering with friends, it’s sure to leave everyone craving for more. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones and subscribe to our blog for more delicious ideas!
Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board and knife
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 10 ounces broccoli
- 8 ounces penne pasta for gluten-free, use gluten-free brown rice penne
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 lb chicken breast 1 large chicken breast
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ¼ cups Parmesan cheese or Mozzarella cheese, or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook broccoli in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain well. Cut into small florets.
- Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Season chicken breast generously with salt and pepper on both sides, then sauté in the skillet for about 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, cover with a lid, and let it rest off heat until no longer pink in the center. Cut chicken into bite-size pieces.
- Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook in the remaining chicken juices and oil over medium heat for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn. Add the cooked and sliced broccoli to the skillet and mix with garlic. Remove from the skillet.
- To make the creamy sauce, heat up 1 cup of heavy cream in the same skillet until it boils. Immediately add the cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Reduce heat to medium-low, then slowly add milk in small portions, constantly stirring and simmering until a creamy consistency is reached.
- Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, then add the broccoli. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Top with the sliced, cooked chicken.
Notes
Experiment with different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian version.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.