Easy Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Looking for a quick, wholesome, and delicious dinner recipe? This Easy Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a family-friendly dish packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and comforting pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

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Ingredients

To prepare this simple yet flavorful recipe, you’ll need:

For the Pasta:

• 250g (8 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Additional grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

this recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
4. Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
3. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently.
3. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet.
2. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner with minimal prep and cleanup.
• Nutritious: Combines lean chicken and nutrient-packed broccoli with hearty pasta.
• Customizable: Swap the broccoli for spinach or asparagus, or use whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
• Kid-Friendly: A creamy and cheesy dish that the whole family will enjoy.

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Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and good-quality Parmesan elevate the flavor of this dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente to ensure it holds its texture when combined with the sauce.
3. Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps achieve a silky sauce consistency.

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Conclusion

This Easy Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a simple, satisfying, and nutritious meal. With its creamy sauce and delightful blend of flavors, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your home.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Side Dish: Serve your chicken and broccoli pasta with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or lemon zest for added texture and flavor.

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Storage Tips

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Storage Time: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in Portions: Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 1 month.
• Thawing: Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pro Tip: For the best texture, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta and broccoli, then combine after reheating.

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With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta fresh, or savor it as a meal prep option later in the week!

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or fettuccine works great, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or even whole-grain or gluten-free options to suit your dietary needs.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, milk with a bit of flour for thickening, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for protein-rich alternatives like tofu, chickpeas, or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken for added flavor.

4. How can I add more flavor to the dish?

Enhance the flavor with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a pinch of Italian seasoning, or a dash of white wine in the sauce. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or crispy bacon bits also provides extra depth and texture.

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