Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Introduction

Indulge in a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all wrapped around al dente pasta. This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect balance of savory, hearty, and satisfying, making it ideal for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. With its creamy texture and the added health benefits of broccoli, this recipe provides a nutritious and delicious option for pasta lovers of all ages.

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine works best)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Broccoli: In the same pot, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender and bright green. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add the Parmesan cheese, and continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations:

Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and substitute with mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-friendly. Just make sure to check that the cream and chicken broth are gluten-free as well.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the sauce.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer. Bowties, spaghetti, or fusilli would work just as well.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, to make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk, and replace the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative.

Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Just make sure to store the pasta and sauce separately to maintain their texture when reheated.

Enjoy your creamy, satisfying pasta dish—perfect for any occasion!