This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken pieces and fresh broccoli tossed in a creamy sauce, it’s simply comforting and delicious.
You can’t go wrong with pasta, right? I love to sprinkle a bit of cheese on top before digging in. It makes every bite even better! Plus, it’s super quick to whip up for dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini for its fun shape that holds sauce well, but you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any pasta you like. Whole grain or gluten-free options are excellent too if you’re looking for healthier alternatives.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the best choice for a nice crunch, but frozen works in a pinch. Just cook it a bit less to avoid mushiness. You might also try other veggies like green beans or bell peppers if you want to mix it up!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a flavor boost, grilled chicken is a fun substitute. Rotisserie chicken is another easy option – just shred it and toss it in!
Heavy Cream: This gives you that rich sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version or even a dairy-free cream if you’re avoiding dairy. Just watch the cooking time as some alternatives may thicken differently.
Parmesan Cheese: I love Parmesan for its salty kick, but Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano could also work. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken to perfection makes a big difference in this dish! Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Here’s how you can achieve juicy, golden chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry before cooking. This helps it brown nicely.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- To check for doneness, cut into the thickest part – it should be no longer pink inside.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices in.
Following these steps will make your chicken tender and flavorful, perfect for your pasta dish!
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or your choice of shape)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken and Broccoli Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of the cooking time, add the broccoli florets into the boiling water with the pasta to cook them together. Once done, drain both the pasta and the broccoli and set them aside.
2. Searing the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you like. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through—this takes about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Making the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you start to smell the wonderful aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to blend everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Mixing It All Together:
Now, it’s time to give your sauce some cheesy goodness! Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the simmering sauce, stirring until it melts and the sauce thickens a bit, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Taste it and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken strips, pasta, and broccoli back into the skillet. Gently toss everything to ensure each piece is coated evenly in that delicious creamy sauce. Let it heat through for another minute or two.
6. Serving Up:
It’s time to eat! Serve your chicken and broccoli pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and flavor.
Enjoy your creamy, hearty Chicken and Broccoli Pasta! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient option. Just add it to the boiling pasta water during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking to ensure it cooks through but retains its bright color and texture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work well. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream substitute. Just be aware that these may slightly alter the flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore its creamy consistency.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, peas, or spinach. Just make sure they are cooked to the desired tenderness before mixing in with the pasta and sauce!
