Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rich pasta in a velvety sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream and Parmesan cheese creates a decadent sauce that elevates the entire dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or substituting chicken with turkey or beef.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a great way to get kids to enjoy their greens while savoring a cheesy pasta dish.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before starting. Having everything ready will save you time and energy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta and blanching broccoli simultaneously.
• Colander: Essential for draining pasta without losing any delicious bits.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

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Ingredients

Prep time: 10 min
Cooking time: 20 min
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~520 kcal

For the Pasta

• 300g rotini pasta (or any short pasta)

For the Chicken & Sauce

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• Salt & pepper

Optional Garnish

• Extra Parmesan
• Fresh parsley

How to Make Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions. Add broccoli in the last 3 minutes of boiling. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic to the skillet. Stir for about a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything well to coat in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving hot.

Notes & Variations

For a lighter version of this dish, swap out heavy cream for half-and-half. If you’re looking for an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes during cooking!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re having a casual family dinner or hosting friends, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle extra Parmesan: Adding a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan on top enhances the flavor and creaminess.
• Try mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can add a delightful gooey texture that pairs perfectly with the pasta.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Garnishing with fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness.
• Basil leaves: Adding fresh basil can introduce a lovely aromatic element to the dish.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting touch that complements the creamy sauce.
• Crusty baguette: A slice of crusty baguette can be perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Salad on the Side

• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and balance to the richness of the pasta.
• Garden salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh chicken and real Parmesan cheese will significantly enhance flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures your pasta maintains its structure and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Don’t overcook broccoli: Add broccoli during the last few minutes of boiling to retain its vibrant color and crispness.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preference without overpowering the dish.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with spices: Adding red pepper flakes or Italian herbs can elevate flavor profiles if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is an ideal accompaniment, perfect for dipping into creamy sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons make this salad a classic pairing.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition while balancing the richness of the pasta.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
5. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil offer refreshing flavors that complement the main dish.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini adds smoky notes and is easy to prepare alongside cooking your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using stale pasta: Always check the expiry date on your pasta. Fresh pasta cooks better and enhances the overall dish.
• Overcooking broccoli: Boil broccoli just until tender. If overcooked, it loses its vibrant color and crunch, affecting the dish’s texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season your sauce adequately can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper.
• Skipping the cream addition step: Adding cream too early can cause it to separate. Mix it in after cooking the chicken for a creamy consistency.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh parsley or extra cheese as garnish can make your dish less appealing. These add flavor and enhance presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the pasta cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into individual servings for easier thawing later.

Reheating Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy as you stir.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of pasta for Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta?

Rotini or other short pastas are ideal as they hold onto the sauce well. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand!

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen broccoli is convenient and works well. Just add it directly during the last few minutes of cooking.

How do I make Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta lighter?

You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Can I customize this Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or even switch up the protein with turkey or beef.

How long does Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta last in the fridge?

It will last for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding various veggies or proteins according to your preference. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and sure to become a family favorite!