Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Imagine a dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy pasta, all enveloped in a rich sauce that dances with garlic and spices. Chicken Broccoli Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. This recipe will take you through each step to create a satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why It Works Every Time
The magic of Chicken Broccoli Pasta lies in its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The chicken is seasoned to perfection, the pasta is al dente, and the broccoli adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a balanced experience. The creamy sauce coats every ingredient, ensuring a rich taste without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredient Rundown
- 1 pound chicken breasts – Cut into large bite-size pieces for juicy, tender bites.
- 1/2 teaspoon EACH paprika, salt, pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the chicken’s flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and adding healthy fats.
- 1 pound penne – A perfect pasta shape that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- 5 cups broccoli florets – Fresh and uncooked, they provide color and nutrition.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a robust flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – For a hint of heat, balancing the creaminess.
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth – Provides depth to the sauce without overpowering it.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for a creamy texture.
- 2 cups heavy cream – The heart of the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy.
- 2 ounces cream cheese, very soft – Adds an extra layer of creaminess and depth.
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon or better than bouillon – Enhances the chicken flavor in the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon EACH dried basil, dried parsley – Adds a fragrant herbal note.
- 1/2 teaspoon EACH onion powder, dried oregano, salt, pepper – Additional seasonings for a well-rounded taste.
- 1 1/2 cups FRESHLY grated Parmesan cheese – For that unmistakable cheesy goodness.
Gear Checklist
- Large pot – For boiling the pasta and broccoli.
- Skillet – To sauté the chicken and create the sauce.
- Mixing bowl – For combining ingredients like the cream and chicken broth.
- Wooden spoon – Essential for stirring and mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
- Grater – To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for better flavor.
Chicken Broccoli Pasta Cooking Guide
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of the broth to create a slurry. Stir this mixture back into the skillet, allowing the sauce to thicken for a minute or two.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the chicken bouillon, dried basil, parsley, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Slowly stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Make It Year-Round
- Seasonal Veggies: Swap out broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers depending on the season.
- Protein Alternatives: Use shrimp, tofu, or turkey for a different protein twist.
- Whole Grain Pasta: Opt for whole grain or gluten-free penne to suit dietary preferences.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to change the flavor profile.
Problems & Prevention
To ensure your Chicken Broccoli Pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are a few common issues and how to prevent them:
- Overcooked Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while sautéing; cook until just done to maintain juiciness.
- Clumpy Sauce: Make sure the cream cheese is very soft before adding it to the sauce to avoid lumps.
- Too Thick Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Pasta Sticking Together: Toss the drained pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking before adding it to the sauce.
Prep Ahead & Store
This Chicken Broccoli Pasta can be prepped ahead of time for a quick weeknight meal:
- Prep Ingredients: Chop the chicken and broccoli, and measure out all ingredients in advance.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before mixing with pasta.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Handy Q&A
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli before adding it to the pasta to prevent excess water in the dish.
Can I substitute half and half for heavy cream?
Absolutely! Half and half will work well, though the sauce may be slightly less rich. Adding a bit more cream cheese can help maintain creaminess.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten it up, use less cream, substitute with evaporated milk, or use a lower-fat cheese option. You can also increase the amount of vegetables.
What should I serve with Chicken Broccoli Pasta?
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole
- Vegan Alfredo Pasta
- Easy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Time to Try It
This Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that blends comfort and flavor. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress your loved ones with this creamy, delicious Chicken Broccoli Pasta that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of the broth to create a slurry. Stir this mixture back into the skillet, allowing the sauce to thicken for a minute or two.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the chicken bouillon, dried basil, parsley, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Slowly stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use evaporated milk or reduce the cream.
- Swap broccoli for seasonal veggies like asparagus or spinach.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
