Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

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🍝 Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Description

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a comforting, family-friendly dish made with tender chicken breast, crisp broccoli florets, and pasta tossed in a rich, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs—ideal for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

🕒 Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: 40 minutes

🍽 Servings

4 servings

🧾 Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced

  • 3 cups broccoli florets

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning

  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta:
    Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Add broccoli during the last 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

  2. Cook Chicken:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked (6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.

  3. Make Sauce:
    In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add chicken broth and cream, stirring gently. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.

  4. Add Cheese:
    Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes until sauce thickens.

  5. Combine:
    Add pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated.

  6. Serve:
    Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

📝 Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.

  • Sauce thickens as it cools—add pasta water or broth if needed.

  • Works well with leftover or rotisserie chicken.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcook broccoli—keep it bright green and slightly crisp.

  • Season gradually to avoid overly salty sauce.

  • For extra flavor, add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.

  • Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or milk for a lighter version.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 520 kcal

  • Protein: 36 g

  • Carbohydrates: 45 g

  • Fat: 22 g

  • Fiber: 4 g

  • Calcium: 220 mg

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle growth and keeps you full.

  • Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C & K and antioxidants.

  • Balanced Meal: Combines carbs, protein, and healthy fats.

  • Comfort Food with Nutrition: Creamy yet wholesome when made fresh.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with added liquid.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, thaw and drain excess water before adding.

Q: What pasta works best?
A: Short pasta like penne or rotini holds the sauce well, but fettuccine is also excellent.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Use coconut cream or cashew cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.

Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely—just skip red pepper flakes for mild flavor.

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