Why Make This Recipe

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a perfect meal for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta, all covered in a creamy sauce. This dish is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for families. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the spice level. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients:

• Pasta (any type, 300g)
• Chicken Breast (cut into bite-sized pieces, 500g)
• Broccoli Florets (300g)
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
• Garlic (minced, 2 cloves)
• Heavy Cream (200ml)
• Chicken Broth (200ml)
• Parmesan Cheese (grated, 100g)
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Chili Flakes (optional, 1 tsp)

Directions:

1. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and no longer pink.
3. Add Broccoli: Add broccoli and garlic to the skillet, cooking until the broccoli is tender.
4. Create Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Season with chili flakes if using.
6. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is best served warm. Place the pasta on plates and add extra Parmesan cheese on top. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs or a pinch of chili flakes for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

How to Store Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

To store leftover Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for about 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Make sure to not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
• If you want more flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
• For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, like milk or a dairy-free cream.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by using different types of protein such as shrimp or tofu. Also, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta based on your dietary preferences.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it to the skillet while cooking the chicken, and it will thaw and cook through.

2. How do I make this dish spicy?
Add chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while simmering to increase the heat.

3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.