Chicken Broccoli Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Pasta: a symphony of flavors and textures that will transform your weeknight dinner routine! Imagine tender chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked pasta, all embraced by a creamy, comforting sauce. Are you ready to discover a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to prepare?

While the exact origins of Chicken Broccoli Pasta are somewhat shrouded in mystery, its popularity speaks volumes about its universal appeal. It’s a dish that cleverly marries the heartiness of Italian pasta traditions with the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables and lean protein. Think of it as a modern classic, born from the desire for quick, nutritious, and delicious meals.

What makes this recipe so beloved? For starters, the taste is simply irresistible. The creamy sauce, often infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, coats every strand of pasta, creating a rich and savory experience. The broccoli adds a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness, while the chicken provides a satisfying protein boost. Beyond the taste, it’s also incredibly convenient. This Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• For the Broccoli:
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• For the Pasta:
• 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
• 8 cups water
• 1 tablespoon salt
• For the Cream Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but adds a nice warmth)
• Optional Toppings:
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Preparing the Chicken

Okay, let’s get started with the chicken! This is a crucial step because well-seasoned chicken makes all the difference in the final dish. Trust me, you don’t want bland chicken ruining your pasta experience.

1. Cut the Chicken: First, take your chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces. I usually aim for pieces that are about 1-inch in size. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat with the pasta.
2. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece of chicken is coated evenly with the spices. I like to use my hands to really massage the spices in.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Set Aside: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside in a bowl. We’ll add it back to the pasta later.

Preparing the Broccoli

Next up, let’s tackle the broccoli. I love the slight crunch and earthy flavor that broccoli brings to this dish. Don’t overcook it, though; we want it to have a little bit of bite!

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli head thoroughly. Then, cut it into florets. Make sure the florets are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
2. Sauté the Broccoli: In the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to wash it!), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add Broccoli and Season: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. You want it to be slightly softened but still have a bit of a bite. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. If the broccoli starts to stick to the pan, add a tablespoon or two of water and cover the skillet for a minute or two to steam it.
4. Set Aside: Once the broccoli is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside with the chicken.

Cooking the Pasta

Now, let’s get the pasta cooking. This is pretty straightforward, but there are a few tips to ensure perfectly cooked pasta every time.

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with 8 cups of water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. The salt not only seasons the pasta but also helps to raise the boiling point of the water.
2. Add Pasta: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta. Stir immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
3. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, so the pasta should be firm to the bite.
4. Drain Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta unless you’re making a cold pasta salad. Rinsing removes the starch, which helps the sauce cling to the pasta.

Making the Cream Sauce

This is where the magic happens! The cream sauce is what brings everything together and makes this dish so comforting and delicious. Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than you think.

1. Melt Butter: In the same pot you used to cook the pasta (after you’ve drained it, of course!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add Flour: Once the butter is melted, add the flour. Whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The roux is the base of the cream sauce and helps to thicken it. Make sure to cook the roux long enough to get rid of the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown too much.
3. Whisk in Milk and Broth: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, about 1/2 cup at a time, making sure to whisk out any lumps as you go. This is important to prevent a lumpy sauce. Continue whisking until all the milk and broth are incorporated.
4. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Assembling the Dish

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Now it’s time to put everything together and enjoy the fruits of our labor.

1. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the pot with the cream sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce.
2. Serve: Serve immediately. Garnish with red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

And there you have it! A delicious and comforting Chicken Broccoli Pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Chicken Broccoli Pasta isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce, to the tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. I know I’ve made it countless times, and it always disappears in minutes!

But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Sauté some mushrooms or bell peppers along with the broccoli. For a richer flavor, try using heavy cream instead of milk. And if you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Serving suggestions are endless! This Chicken Broccoli Pasta is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for dipping into that luscious sauce. You could even top it with some toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch. For a more elegant presentation, serve it in individual bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

And don’t feel limited by the ingredients I’ve listed. This recipe is incredibly adaptable to what you have on hand. Swap out the chicken for shrimp or sausage. Use different types of pasta, like penne or rotini. Experiment with different cheeses, like Gruyere or Fontina. The possibilities are truly endless!

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and healthy ingredients, making it a guilt-free pleasure that you can enjoy any night of the week. Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. This Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

But the real magic happens when you make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create a dish that’s perfectly tailored to your taste. And most importantly, have fun! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so relax, put on some music, and let your creativity flow.

Once you’ve tried this recipe, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments in the section below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. I can’t wait to see what culinary masterpieces you create! Happy cooking!

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