Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe: A Comforting One-Pan Dinner

Looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrients? This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy Parmesan sauce for a delicious, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

What Is Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

This dish is a classic combination of juicy chicken breast, crisp-tender broccoli, and pasta, all coated in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both hearty and wholesome, made in just one skillet with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple steps.
• Balanced Meal: Combines protein, veggies, and carbs in one dish.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable for different tastes or dietary needs.
• Comforting: Creamy, cheesy goodness that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or bowtie works well)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Cook pasta according to package directions in a large pot of boiling salted water.
2. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli. Set aside.

Cooking the Chicken

4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper. Cook in the skillet until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Making the Sauce

6. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Combining Everything

8. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together until coated in the sauce.
9. Stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time to adjust the sauce’s consistency as needed.

Finishing Touches

10. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy pasta with:

• Warm garlic bread or breadsticks.
• A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette.
• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers 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 cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Freezing Instructions

• This dish is best served fresh but can be frozen without the broccoli for up to 2 months.
• To freeze, place cooled pasta and chicken in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding freshly cooked broccoli.

Recipe Variations

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Lighten It Up: Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream.
• Add More Veggies: Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.
• Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it to the pasta water for the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The sauce is best made fresh, but you can prep the chicken and pasta in advance to save time.

What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?
Reheat on low heat with a splash of cream or milk to prevent the sauce from drying out.

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a creamy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich flavor and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and share your experience with us—this might just be your new go-to recipe!

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