Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying weeknight dinner? Look no further than this Easy, Creamy, Garlicky, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce. It’s the perfect addition to your menu for its simplicity and incredible taste.

Ingredients Needed

For the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta:

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 2 cups broccoli: cut into small florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion: diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 4 cloves garlic: minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 chicken breasts: cooked and cut into small cubes

Substitutes and Variations:

• Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for regular penne.
• Use almond or soy milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version.
• Replace broccoli with cauliflower or add spinach for extra greens.
• For a different flavor profile, try using cheddar or mozzarella in place of parmesan.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment

To make this delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, you will need:

• Pot for the pasta
• Skillet for the chicken
• Colander
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Serving bowl

Preparation Steps

Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta.
4. Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, and cook for an additional minute.

Making the Sauce:

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
2. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring until smooth.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
4. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combining Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and diced chicken breasts to the pot with the parmesan sauce.
2. Stir until everything is well coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Best Ways to Serve:

• Transfer the Chicken Broccoli Pasta to a serving bowl.
• Garnish with additional grated parmesan cheese, if desired.
• Serve hot for the best flavor.

Garnishing Ideas:

• Freshly chopped parsley or basil
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat
• A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil

Tips and Tricks

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overcooking the pasta: Ensure you cook it to al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
• Not whisking the sauce properly: This can cause lumps, so whisk continuously for a smooth sauce.
• Skipping the seasoning: Properly season at each step to build layers of flavor.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Results:

• Cook the chicken ahead of time or use leftover cooked chicken to save time.
• Use fresh parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth melting.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to reach desired consistency.

Storage and Reheating

How to Store Leftovers:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Best Methods for Reheating:

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Different Pasta?

• Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape like fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti.

How Can I Make It Healthier?

• Opt for whole wheat pasta and low-fat milk. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrients.

Conclusion

This Easy, Creamy, Garlicky, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a delightful meal that combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the freshness of broccoli and the protein punch of chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious dish and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family. Subscribe to our blog for more mouth-watering recipes!

Print