Description
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients:
2 chicken breasts, cubed
8 oz pasta (rigatoni or penne works well)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 head of broccoli, chopped into florets
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Extra Parmesan for topping
Instructions:
Cook the pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the broccoli:
In the same pan, add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if needed to help steam the broccoli.
Make the sauce:
Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Toss until the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce and the cheese has melted.
Serve:
Garnish with extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
This creamy, cheesy pasta with chicken and broccoli is super comforting and flavorful. You can always add other vegetables if you like! Let me know if you want to try any variations or add more ingredients.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. First, prep all ingredients: cube chicken, mince garlic, chop broccoli, and grate Parmesan. Begin boiling heavily salted water for pasta. As it heats, cook the seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden. Remove chicken, then add broccoli to the same pan with a splash of water, covering briefly to steam until bright green and tender-crisp. Push broccoli aside, add garlic, then pour in cream and broth. Simmer to thicken before stirring in Parmesan until melted. Finally, combine the drained pasta and cooked chicken into the sauce, tossing thoroughly to coat.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a complete meal, serve with crusty garlic bread. To elevate presentation, garnish with extra parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, and a generous dusting of fresh Parmesan. A crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta. Sear seasoned chicken and set aside. Steam broccoli in the same pan. Create sauce with garlic, cream, and broth, then melt in Parmesan. Combine all elements—pasta, chicken, broccoli—in the creamy sauce. Garnish and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Shrimp, sliced sausage, or even canned chickpeas for a vegetarian version work well.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or evaporated milk, though the sauce will be less thick.
My sauce is too thin. How do I thicken it? Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. You can also create a slurry with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? The components can be prepped ahead, but combine just before serving as the pasta will absorb the sauce.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the broccoli: It should be tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp to add texture.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese is superior.
- Not salting the pasta water sufficiently: This is your primary chance to season the pasta itself.
- Crowding the pan when cooking chicken: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning, not steaming.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quintessential weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together with straightforward techniques. Its versatility allows for countless ingredient swaps to suit your pantry or dietary needs. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a consistently delicious, comforting meal that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delightful result!