Description
Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta delivers comfort and satisfaction in one delightful dish. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a balanced meal that promises warmth and flavor for hungry families craving a simple yet delicious dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Carbohydrates and Vegetables:
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare a spacious pot with salted water, bringing it to a rolling boil. Submerge pasta and cook until reaching an ideal al dente texture, then carefully drain and reserve.
- Simultaneously, gently steam broccoli florets, ensuring they maintain a vibrant green color and tender-crisp consistency. Remove and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a robust skillet over medium temperature. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and completely cooked through, developing a rich exterior. Transfer protein to a separate plate.
- In the same skillet, introduce additional olive oil and quickly toast minced garlic until aromatic, releasing its intense flavor profile.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, blending smoothly with grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk continuously to create a silky, cohesive sauce, adjusting thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Consolidate all components by introducing cooked pasta, seared chicken, and steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce. Gently toss to ensure comprehensive coating and uniform heating.
- Elevate the dish’s complexity by sprinkling red pepper flakes for subtle heat and garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.
- Present the pasta immediately, optionally accompanied by additional Parmesan cheese for those desiring extra richness.
Notes
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter, healthier version that still maintains creamy texture.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate different dietary needs without compromising taste.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
- Chop broccoli into small, uniform pieces for even cooking and better sauce distribution throughout the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg