Description
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients:
2 cups rigatoni pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 chicken breasts, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Steam the broccoli florets for 4-5 minutes until tender. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into a creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
#ChickenPasta #EasyDinner
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect Chicken and Broccoli Pasta every time. First, start boiling a large pot of salted water for your rigatoni. While it heats, cut your chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes and season generously with salt and pepper. Once the water is boiling, cook the pasta until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. Meanwhile, steam your broccoli florets until bright green and just tender-crisp. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, cooking undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side to get a golden sear before removing. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the minced garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the grated Parmesan until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. For a silkier sauce, slowly whisk in a splash of the reserved pasta water. Finally, add the drained pasta, steamed broccoli, and cooked chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together until it’s evenly and luxuriously coated in the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta dish is a complete meal on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate it. Serve it in shallow bowls with a final sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and a crack of black pepper. A side of garlic bread or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette perfectly cuts through the richness. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or basil. If you want extra vegetables, sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes mixed into the sauce are delicious additions.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta and steam broccoli separately. Sear seasoned chicken cubes until golden. Create a creamy sauce by sautéing garlic, then simmering heavy cream and melting Parmesan into it. Combine all elements in the skillet, toss with the sauce, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Penne, fettuccine, or farfalle all work well. Choose a shape that holds sauce effectively.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be thinner. You can also use a cornstarch slurry to help thicken it.
Can I add the broccoli directly to the pasta water? Yes, for fewer dishes, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, then drain together.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
What can I use instead of Parmesan? Pecorino Romano offers a sharper flavor, while Asiago or a good quality sharp white cheddar can also be used for a different profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Broccoli: Steaming it until mushy will result in a unpleasant texture and color. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Crowding the Chicken: Adding too much chicken to the skillet at once steams it instead of searing it. Cook in batches if needed.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: These products often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always grate fresh cheese from a block.
- Skipping Pasta Water: Not reserving the starchy cooking water is a missed opportunity. It’s the secret to helping the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the epitome of a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a creamy, flavorful dish that is both comforting and impressive. Its versatility allows for countless adaptations, making it a reliable recipe to keep in your weekly rotation. Quick to prepare and universally loved, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite for busy weeknights and casual dinners alike.