Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This delicious chicken and broccoli pasta is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a savory Parmesan-infused sauce come together for a flavorful and wholesome dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Step 3: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- Step 4: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 5: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden.
- Step 6: Add the broccoli florets and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant green and tender.
- Step 7: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, add the drained pasta and Parmesan cheese, and gently toss everything to combine.
- Step 8: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or zest for a bright, fresh finish.
- Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a few tablespoons of cream or crème fraîche at the end.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
Storage
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving for long periods to keep the chicken tender.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Steam it until heated through but avoid overcooking to maintain texture.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese make great alternatives, offering a similar sharp and savory flavor.
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe combines tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, and al dente pasta in a savory garlic and Parmesan sauce. It’s a hearty and nutritious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop, perfect for busy weeknights or comforting dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Oils
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne or fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers gently, preparing the pan for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest and slice the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into bite-sized pieces, ready to be added back into the dish.
- Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden, infusing the base with aromatic flavors.
- Steam the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli steam for 3-4 minutes until vibrant green and tender but still crisp.
- Combine all ingredients: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Gently toss everything together to evenly coat with the sauce and cheese.
- Season and serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pasta hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a lighter broth option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- You can use gluten-free pasta if needed to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing helps retain juices and keeps the meat tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: chicken pasta recipe, broccoli pasta, quick chicken dinner, easy pasta dish, healthy pasta dinner, one skillet pasta, weeknight dinner
