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

Scale

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