Description
A flavorful and hearty Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish combining tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli, and al dente pasta, all tossed in a light garlic and Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a nutritious dinner that’s quick to prepare and full of delicious textures and aromas.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings and Sauces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt to taste
- Freshly cracked pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Rest and slice chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Steam the broccoli: Add broccoli florets and pour in chicken broth. Cover the skillet and let broccoli steam for 3-4 minutes until tender and bright green.
- Combine ingredients: Return sliced chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently toss everything together to evenly coat with the sauce and cheese.
- Season and serve: Adjust seasoning with additional salt and freshly cracked pepper as needed. Serve the dish hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter sauce.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain its juices and keeps it tender.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and enhances the flavor.
- Broccoli can be substituted with other green vegetables like asparagus or green beans if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken broccoli pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, healthy chicken pasta, easy dinner recipe, one pan pasta dish
