Delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This delicious chicken and broccoli pasta is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and flavorful pasta tossed in a light, cheesy sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrition, it’s a hearty meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 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
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil a large pot of salted water and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet.
- Step 3: Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Step 5: Add the broccoli florets and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant green and tender.
- Step 6: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, add the drained pasta and Parmesan cheese. Gently toss everything together to combine and heat through.
- Step 7: Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed, then serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese note.
- For creamier pasta, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta before serving.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if the pasta seems dry.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just steam it a little longer until tender before combining with the pasta.
Is it necessary to rest the chicken before slicing?
Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, making it juicier and more flavorful when sliced.
Print
Delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a perfect weeknight meal combining tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli, and al dente penne pasta tossed in a lightly spiced garlic and Parmesan sauce. The dish is easy to prepare and packed with protein and nutrients, making it a wholesome and flavorful dinner option.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, freshly cracked, to taste
Liquids and Cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and add the pasta. Cook it according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Rest and Slice Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Once rested, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Steam Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets and pour in the chicken broth. Cover the skillet and let it steam for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli becomes vibrant green and tender-crisp.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the flavorful sauce.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pasta hot for a comforting, delicious meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth.
- You can replace broccoli with other veggies like asparagus or green beans depending on your preference.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of cream or milk when adding the Parmesan cheese.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your level of heat tolerance.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken pasta, broccoli pasta, garlic chicken pasta, easy dinner, weeknight recipe, penne pasta, healthy pasta dish
