This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a simple yet tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and tender pasta. It’s like a hug in a bowl! 🍝
I love making this when I need a quick dinner option. Just cook everything together and dinner is served! Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I prefer penne for its perfect bite and ability to hold the sauce. If you don’t have penne, feel free to use rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give a nice crunch and vibrant color. If fresh isn’t an option, frozen broccoli works too! Just add it to the pan later to avoid overcooking.
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean quality. You could also use thighs for richer flavor, or even swap in cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt mixed with a splash of milk. Just keep in mind this might change the sauce’s consistency a bit!
How Do I Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without It Separating?
Getting that beautiful creamy sauce requires a bit of patience! Here’s how to do it right:
- Keep your heat at medium-low when adding cream to avoid boiling, which can cause separation.
- Add the cheese gradually and stir until melted; this helps to create a stable emulsion.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually mix in your reserved pasta water. It will help loosen the sauce while adding flavor!
Follow these tips, and you’ll be proud of that creamy goodness in your pasta!
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (or dried basil and oregano)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta takes about 25 minutes total. This includes 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
2. Blanching the Broccoli:
During the last 3 minutes of cooking the pasta, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. This will help them blanch and turn bright green. Then, drain both the pasta and the broccoli, but don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later!
3. Cooking the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
4. Adding Garlic:
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant—this will give your dish a delicious flavor!
5. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let it heat through for about 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
6. Mixing in the Cheese:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese while the sauce is still hot. Allow it to melt and mix until you have a smooth sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Combining Everything:
Now it’s time to add the cooked pasta and blanched broccoli into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and broccoli are well coated with the creamy sauce.
8. Final Seasoning:
Give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You want to make sure it’s just right!
9. Serving Your Dish:
Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta right away. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, some fresh parsley if you like, and a wedge of lemon on the side. A squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing zing to the dish!
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Chicken and Broccoli Pasta! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just add it to the skillet a couple of minutes before you finish cooking to ensure it’s heated through without being mushy.
What Type of Pasta Can I Use?
You can use any short pasta, like rotini or farfalle, if you don’t have penne on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. For a healthier option, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be substituted.
How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?
To lighten it up, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese for a similar flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
