How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a delicious and easy meal, perfect for any weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken breast and tender broccoli come together with al dente pasta in a creamy garlic sauce, creating a satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 large skillet or frying pan
- 1 colander
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute half with chicken broth for a healthier option.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Garnish with extra if desired.
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- optional red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they are bright green and tender but still crisp.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese if you like.
Notes
For a healthier option, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the dish for added nutrition.
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, although the pasta may absorb more sauce as it sits.