Hello, fellow foodies! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen: Chicken and Broccoli Pasta. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly quick and easy to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal fast.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick Preparation: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken, vitamins from broccoli, and whole grain goodness from pasta, it’s a balanced meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the pasta water for the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside with the pasta.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour in the whole milk and stir until heated through. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add some chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can enhance the flavors.
- Serve with Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Tips for Customization
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Variations: Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Cheesy Delight: Add more Parmesan or try different cheeses like mozzarella or feta.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Simply thaw it first and pat dry before using.
Q: How can I make it creamier?
A: Add more Parmesan cheese or use heavy cream instead of whole milk for an even richer sauce.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time. Combine everything just before serving for the best results.Enjoy your delicious and easy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta!
