Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a simple, yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and pasta all in one pan. Tossed in a light garlic and chicken broth sauce with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this recipe is a wholesome and satisfying meal that can be made in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Add minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a few minutes until the broth reduces slightly.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine all ingredients.
6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to coat.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Creamy Version: For a creamy pasta dish, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese along with the chicken broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet for a spicy version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If it seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to moisten it.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
3. Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They will add more flavor and remain tender.
4. What can I use instead of chicken broth? You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water if you prefer a lighter taste.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later. Just reheat when ready to serve.
6. Can I add cheese to the sauce? Yes, you can add more cheese to the sauce for extra flavor. A bit of cream cheese or more Parmesan will work beautifully.
7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer.
8. Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
9. What if I don’t have chicken broth? If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine or water.
10. What should I serve with this dish? This dish pairs well with a simple salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is an easy and satisfying meal that combines lean protein, fresh vegetables, and hearty pasta into one flavorful dish. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s the perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you’re making it as is or adding your own twist, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Print