Ah, chicken and broccoli pasta—talk about a dish that hits all the right notes! It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s not only super simple to whip up but also packed with nutrition. I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente pasta all in one bowl? It’s a weeknight savior, and you’ll find that it’s perfect for those busy days when you want something healthy yet satisfying.

This recipe has become one of my go-to favorites because it’s so versatile. You can dress it up or down, depending on what you have on hand or your mood. Plus, the garlic and Parmesan cheese bring such a delightful flavor that I can hardly resist going back for seconds! You’ll also love how quickly it comes together—literally, in just 30 minutes, you’ve got a delicious, wholesome meal on the table. Trust me, once you try this chicken and broccoli pasta, it’s going to become a staple in your kitchen too!

Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious and nutritious chicken and broccoli pasta. I promise, it’s super straightforward!

• 8 oz pasta (any shape you love—penne, fusilli, or spaghetti works great!)
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets (feel free to use fresh or frozen, both are wonderful!)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (the more garlic, the better, in my opinion!)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (this adds such a nice richness)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (because what’s pasta without cheese?)
• Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)

Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking, it really helps the process flow smoothly. You’re going to love how these ingredients come together!

How to Prepare Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delightful chicken and broccoli pasta! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente perfection. Remember, you want that perfect chewy texture, so keep an eye on it! Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. You can even drizzle a bit of olive oil over it to prevent sticking while you move on to the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Now, grab a large skillet and heat up your 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm (you’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers a bit), add in the diced chicken. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. You want that delicious golden color to develop—trust me, it adds so much flavor!

Step 3: Add Broccoli and Garlic

Next up, it’s time to make this dish pop with flavor! Toss in your minced garlic and broccoli florets to the pan with the chicken. Sauté everything together for about 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli turns bright green and is tender but still has a little crunch. The garlic should be fragrant and golden, too—oh, it smells heavenly!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now, it’s all about bringing it together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and broccoli, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Give everything a good toss to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with all those delicious flavors. You really want to make sure every bite has that cheesy goodness and lovely garlic flavor—it’s what makes this dish so irresistible!

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, it’s time to season your masterpiece! Add salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy, but remember you can always add more later. Serve this vibrant chicken and broccoli pasta warm, maybe with a little extra Parmesan on top for good measure. It’s also lovely with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce. Enjoy every bite of this wholesome meal!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal, I think it’s always nice to know what you’re putting into your body. Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients or brands you use. But here’s an estimated breakdown for one serving of this chicken and broccoli pasta:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

This dish is not only satisfying but also a great source of protein and veggies! So, you can feel good about enjoying it any night of the week. Just remember, these numbers are estimations, so it’s always a good idea to check your specific products for the most accurate information. Happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
• Nutritious ingredients that are packed with flavor and health benefits.
• Versatile dish—customize with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes.
• Delicious flavors of garlic and Parmesan that make every bite satisfying.
• One-pot meal for easy cleanup—less mess, more time to enjoy!
• Great for meal prep—perfect for busy weeknights or leftovers for lunch.
• Kid-friendly and loved by the whole family—who can resist pasta?

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure you nail this chicken and broccoli pasta! Here are my top tips to help you achieve the best results:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it to al dente is key! It’ll continue to cook a bit when you combine it with the chicken and broccoli, so keep an eye on your timer.
• Use high-quality olive oil: Since we’re using it for both cooking and flavor, a good extra virgin olive oil can elevate the dish significantly. It really brings out the flavors!
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables you love—like bell peppers, spinach, or even some cherry tomatoes. It adds color and extra nutrients!
• Season as you go: Taste your dish at different stages of cooking. Adjusting seasoning throughout the process helps build layers of flavor. You might find it needs just a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper!
• Experiment with cheese: While Parmesan is a classic choice, try adding a sprinkle of pecorino or even some crumbled feta for a different twist. Cheese makes everything better, right?
• Let it rest: After you combine everything, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Save some pasta water: If you find the pasta seems a bit dry after mixing, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. It’s starchy and will help bind everything together.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a delicious and satisfying chicken and broccoli pasta that’ll impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Variations on Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

One of the best things about this chicken and broccoli pasta is how adaptable it is! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun variations to try that’ll keep things exciting in the kitchen:

• Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Both options will soak up all those delicious flavors beautifully!
• Add More Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas for added color and crunch. You could even throw in some spinach toward the end for a pop of green and extra nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken or sauté some sliced jalapeños with the garlic. It’ll elevate the dish to a whole new level!
• Creamy Version: For a richer dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese with the Parmesan. It’ll create a creamy, dreamy sauce that’s just divine.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can add a lovely freshness. Try adding some Italian seasoning or lemon zest for a bright, zesty twist.
• Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheeses! A bit of mozzarella or fontina can bring an even creamier texture, while a sprinkle of feta adds a tangy bite.

No matter how you choose to mix it up, remember that the heart of this dish is all about enjoying good food that fits your tastes. So, don’t hesitate to get creative and make this chicken and broccoli pasta your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious chicken and broccoli pasta and now you have some leftovers—great news! This dish stores beautifully, and I can’t wait to share how to keep it fresh and tasty for your next meal.

To store your leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any condensation from making it soggy. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick meal!

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, here’s how to reheat it while keeping all that wonderful flavor and texture intact:

• Microwave: Place your portion in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until warmed through. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: If you have a bit more time, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help it heat evenly and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Oven: For a slightly crispy texture, you can also pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Just cover it with foil to keep it from drying out.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll enjoy your chicken and broccoli pasta just as much the second time around. Happy eating!

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: 5 Simple Steps to Comfort

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A simple and nutritious chicken and broccoli pasta dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned.
4. Add garlic and broccoli, and sauté until broccoli is tender.
5. Mix in cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then serve.

Notes

• Use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
• Adjust broccoli quantity to your preference.
• Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: chicken and broccoli pasta