Ah, chicken and broccoli pasta—this dish is a true weeknight hero in my kitchen! I remember the first time I whipped it up; I had some leftover chicken and broccoli and thought, why not toss them together with pasta? The result was nothing short of magical! It’s so simple yet bursting with flavor, and it always brings a smile to my family’s faces. The creamy Parmesan cheese combined with tender chicken and bright broccoli is just perfection on a plate. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz pasta (your choice, but I love penne or fusilli for this recipe!)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re nice and green!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for that rich flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated if you can, it melts beautifully)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t hold back on the seasoning!)
How to Prepare Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 8 oz of pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time—usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together. When it’s done, drain it and set it aside, but don’t forget to save a splash of that pasta water for later!
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. This is where the magic starts! Once the oil is shimmering, toss in your diced chicken breast. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. You want that golden color for maximum flavor! If you find it’s sticking, just add a splash more of olive oil. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Step 3: Add Garlic and Broccoli
Now, let’s amp up the flavor! Add in the minced garlic and those vibrant broccoli florets to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté everything together for another 4-5 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and tender but still has a little crunch left. The smell of garlic wafting through your kitchen? Wow, just heavenly!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
It’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and broccoli. Gently toss them together, making sure everything is well mixed. If the mixture seems a little dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash of that reserved pasta water you set aside earlier. It’ll help everything come together beautifully!
Step 5: Add Seasoning and Cheese
Finally, let’s finish this off with some flavor! Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix, letting the cheese melt and coat the pasta. If you like a little extra kick, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. And there you have it, a deliciously creamy chicken and broccoli pasta ready to be devoured!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
- One-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you!
- Flavor-packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy Parmesan.
- Healthy and satisfying, providing a good balance of protein and veggies.
- Customizable to your taste—swap in different proteins or veggies with ease.
- Kid-friendly and easy to please even the pickiest eaters!
- Leftovers taste amazing—great for lunch the next day!
Tips for Success
So, you want to make sure your chicken and broccoli pasta turns out absolutely perfect? I’ve got you covered with a few pro tips that will elevate your dish to the next level!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Always follow the package instructions but check for al dente a minute or two before time’s up. You want it to have a little bite—trust me, it’ll finish cooking in the skillet with the other ingredients!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and garlic make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, opt for fresh veggies instead of frozen for that vibrant crunch and taste!
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Give your chicken time to brown properly. This caramelization adds depth to your dish. Keep the heat at medium and resist the urge to stir too often.
- Save That Pasta Water: The starchy water is liquid gold! It helps to bind the sauce and pasta together, so always reserve a cup before draining. You might not need it all, but just in case!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasonings! If you love a bit of spice, try adding red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Make this dish your own!
- Let It Rest: After combining everything, let the pasta sit for a few minutes off the heat. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is classic, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a sprinkle of mozzarella for extra creaminess. It’s all about what makes your taste buds happy!
With these tips in hand, you’ll be on your way to mastering chicken and broccoli pasta. So get cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!
Variations
One of the things I absolutely love about chicken and broccoli pasta is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep it fresh and exciting. Here are some of my favorite variations that you can try:
- Shrimp: Swap out the chicken for shrimp! Just sauté them until they turn pink and opaque—this will give your dish a delightful seafood twist.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Press it to remove excess moisture, then cube and sauté until golden. It soaks up the flavors beautifully!
- Different Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even spinach. They add color and nutrition, plus you can use whatever’s in season!
- Pesto Pasta: For a burst of flavor, stir in some pesto sauce instead of just olive oil. It’ll elevate your dish with that herby goodness we all crave!
- Creamy Version: If you’re in the mood for something extra rich, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to create a luscious sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy version. It adds a nice kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese!
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: You can easily make this dish healthier by choosing whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options. It’s just as delicious!
These variations make the chicken and broccoli pasta recipe truly your own, so don’t hesitate to experiment! Each twist brings something new to the table, and I can’t wait for you to try them all!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This chicken and broccoli pasta tastes just as amazing the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. To store your leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days—just be sure to seal it tightly so it doesn’t dry out!
When it comes time to reheat, I recommend using the stovetop for the best flavor and texture. Just add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to a skillet and heat it over medium-low. Toss in your pasta and stir gently until everything’s warmed through. You might want to add a little fresh Parmesan on top for that cheesy goodness! If you’re in a rush, you can use the microwave—just cover it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s steaming hot.
And there you have it! Enjoy your delicious chicken and broccoli pasta, even on those busy days. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this chicken and broccoli pasta! It’s always nice to know what you’re putting on your plate, right? Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving, so you can feel good about enjoying this delicious dish:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
This dish is not only satisfying but also a great source of protein thanks to the chicken, and those vibrant broccoli florets bring in some essential vitamins and fiber. Plus, it’s a well-balanced meal that keeps you feeling full and energized! Enjoy every bite, knowing it’s good for you too!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet. It’s a great time-saver!
What type of pasta is best for chicken and broccoli pasta?
I love using penne or fusilli because their shapes hold onto the sauce and flavors beautifully. But really, any pasta you have on hand will work—just cook it according to the package instructions!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare everything up to the combining step, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in a skillet, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out.
Is this chicken and broccoli pasta gluten-free?
It can be! Just swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set!
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
If you’re looking to amp up the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or even some fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end. It really brightens everything up!
What can I substitute for chicken?
No problem! You can easily use shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly!
Can I freeze chicken and broccoli pasta?
Yes, but I recommend freezing it before adding the cheese for the best texture. Store it in an airtight container, and it should keep for about 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: 7 Reasons to Love This Dish
- Temps Total: 30 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A simple and tasty chicken and broccoli pasta dish.
Ingrédients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and broccoli, and sauté until broccoli is tender.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and broccoli mixture.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 20 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sucre: 3g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 15g
- Graisses Saturées: 3g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 10g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 50g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 80mg
Mots-clés: chicken and broccoli pasta
