Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

For anyone craving a comforting yet nutritious home-cooked meal, chicken and broccoli pasta is the epitome of the perfect answer. This classic Italian-inspired dish weaves together tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and al dente pasta, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both satisfying and balanced. If you're looking to add a palate-pleasing staple to your culinary repertoire, this recipe is a must-try. Whether you're making a family dinner, prepping your lunches for the week, or impressing friends, the following guide is your path to pasta perfection!

Ingredients

• 1 pound (about 450g) of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 ounces (about 340g) of pasta (penne or your preferred type)
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes, for a spicy kick (optional)

Preparation Steps

Cooking the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, warm one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring frequently, until no longer pink inside, and the juices run clear (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Boiling the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add a generous pinch of salt and the pasta to the boiling water.
3. Cook the pasta until just al dente according to the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes).
4. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later use.

Cooking the Broccoli

1. In a separate pot, steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender but still slightly crisp (about 5 minutes if boiling).
2. Once cooked, drain the broccoli and set it aside.

Combining All Ingredients

1. In the skillet used for the chicken, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic, and sauté for another 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until a creamy sauce forms.
7. Return the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the chicken and broccoli, then remove from heat.
9. If the pasta seems a little dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce until you reach your desired consistency.
10. Season with extra salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Tips for Success

• For an extra layer of depth, consider roasting the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a 425°F (220°C) oven for about 20 minutes until lightly charred.
• When adding the pasta to the sauce, do so while the pasta is still warm but not hot to the touch. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce without overcooking it.

Health Benefits

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is more than just a delightful indulgence—it’s a plate of healthful goodness! Broccoli is high in fiber and vitamins, contributing to digestive health and boosting the immune system. Meanwhile, chicken delivers a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The dish is rounded out with whole grain pasta—a complex carbohydrate that provides energy, along with a satisfying mouthfeel.

Prepare to savor the wholesome aromas and tastes of this hearty Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish. Once you follow these straightforward steps, you’re on your way to creating a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. Whether cooking for a full household or just yourself, this recipe is a winner. Don't hesitate to share your experience with us in the comments below. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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