This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a tasty and colorful meal that’s super easy to whip up. Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta all come together in a creamy sauce. Yum!
You know what makes this dish special? It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! I love to sprinkle some cheese on top for extra flavor. What’s not to love about pasta night? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini for fun spirals that hold onto the sauce well. Any pasta shape works great too! Try penne, farfalle, or even macaroni if you like.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives a nice crunch. If it’s not available, frozen broccoli works just as well—just thaw and add it to the pasta.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with. You could swap them for thigh meat or even use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but it might not be as rich and creamy. You can also try cashew or almond cream for a non-dairy choice.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a delicious salty flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or a nutritional yeast topping for a vegan option works too.
How Do I Get My Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken until it’s juicy and tender is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps it brown nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming the chicken.
- Cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center—about 5-7 minutes. Using a meat thermometer, aim for 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before adding it to the pasta. This keeps it juicy!
How Can I Make the Sauce Creamier?
A creamy sauce is what makes this dish special! Here are a few tips:
- Use full-fat heavy cream for the richest texture. If you want it extra creamy, you can add a little cream cheese or mascarpone too.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes without rushing it. This helps thicken the cream and blend in the flavors nicely.
- Stir in the cheese while the sauce is still simmering to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Now you’re all set to make a delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta! Enjoy! 🎉
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken and Broccoli Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, and around 15 minutes to boil the pasta and mix everything together. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When the pasta has about 3 minutes left, toss in the fresh broccoli florets. Drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander, then set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
While your pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the bite-sized pieces of chicken and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken up a bit.
4. Add Cheese and Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, making sure it melts into the sauce and creates a creamy texture. Add the lemon juice for some brightness, and if you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes. Taste your sauce, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Return the cooked chicken, broccoli, and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently, making sure that each piece is coated in the delicious creamy sauce. Let it cook together for another 1-2 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy this comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table.
Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the dish. You can do this by putting it in the microwave for a couple of minutes or by running it under warm water. Add it to the pasta during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking for best results.
Can I Substitute Chicken with Another Protein?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite protein! Shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a lower-calorie option, try sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with a little bit of chicken broth to reach a creamy consistency. Keep in mind that the flavor and richness may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short increments, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may want to add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce!
