Chicken Broccoli Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Chicken broccoli pasta: just the name conjures up images of a comforting, creamy, and utterly satisfying meal, doesn’t it? This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. I’m thrilled to share my version of this classic, a recipe that’s been a family favorite for years.

While the exact origins of chicken broccoli pasta are a bit hazy, its popularity likely stems from the rise of Italian-American cuisine, where simple, flavorful ingredients are combined to create hearty and accessible dishes. Broccoli, a nutritional powerhouse, adds a welcome touch of freshness and color, balancing the richness of the pasta and chicken. It’s a brilliant way to sneak in some extra veggies, even the kids will love it!

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect trifecta of taste, texture, and convenience. Tender chicken, slightly crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your liking. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or swap out the chicken for shrimp or sausage. The possibilities are endless! Get ready to experience a pasta dish that’s both comforting and exciting – you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, but adds richness)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken and Broccoli:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely when we cook them. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy!
2. Now, let’s prep the broccoli. Wash the broccoli head thoroughly. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Make sure they are roughly the same size so they cook evenly. If the stems are thick, you can peel them and chop them into smaller pieces as well. We don’t want to waste any of that delicious broccoli!

Cooking the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is important – it seasons the pasta from the inside out.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, so the pasta should be firm but not crunchy. Usually, this is about 8-10 minutes.
3. While the pasta is cooking, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold! We’ll use it later to help create a creamy sauce.
4. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Sautéing the Chicken and Broccoli:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to hold all the ingredients later.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of brown. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
5. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. If the broccoli starts to stick to the pan, add a tablespoon or two of water to deglaze the pan.

Creating the Sauce and Combining Everything:

1. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – these bits are packed with flavor!
2. If using, stir in the heavy cream. This will make the sauce extra creamy and decadent.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it is melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Add the lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
5. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet and toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
6. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta and create a creamy emulsion.
7. Continue to cook for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serving:

1. Serve the chicken broccoli pasta immediately.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
3. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the flavors.
4. Enjoy! This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Use different protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute it with shrimp, sausage, or tofu.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the chicken altogether and add more vegetables or beans for a vegetarian option.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier dish.
• Make it cheesy: Add more Parmesan cheese or other cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone.
• Use different pasta shapes: While penne, rotini, and farfalle are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you like.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken and broccoli ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the pasta and combine everything with the sauce.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. You may need to add a little water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 500-600
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g

This recipe is a great way to get a healthy and delicious meal on the table quickly. It’s also a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking. So, get creative and have fun with it!

Conclusion:

This chicken broccoli pasta recipe isn’t just another weeknight meal; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the perfectly cooked pasta to the tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all coated in that creamy, dreamy sauce, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. I know I’ve made it countless times, and it always disappears in minutes. But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta – penne, rotini, or even farfalle would work beautifully. Want to add a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick. For a cheesier experience, stir in some extra Parmesan or a handful of shredded mozzarella right before serving. And if you’re looking to sneak in some extra veggies, consider adding some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a complete meal: Serve alongside a crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette. * Elevate the dish: Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness. * Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a protein-packed vegetarian option. * Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a fiery twist. * Make it ahead: Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and bake in the oven for a comforting casserole. I truly believe that this chicken broccoli pasta recipe is a winner. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and wholesome meal on the table in under an hour. Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids (and even the pickiest eaters) to enjoy their vegetables. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it – that’s the beauty of cooking! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see what you create! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help. Enjoy your chicken broccoli pasta!

Print