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Easy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Toss Recipe photo

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Toss Recipe

A quick, satisfying pasta toss combining whole wheat pasta, broccoli, and lemon chicken for a bright weeknight meal.
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces whole wheat rotini or penne pasta
  • 12 ounces broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 4 reserved lemon chicken thighs skin removed, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth fat-free, low sodium
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese fresh, grated
  • 1/2 cup walnuts toasted

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • large spoon or tongs

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat rotini or penne according to package directions.
  2. Two minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and continue cooking until both are tender.
  3. Drain pasta and broccoli in a colander and return them to the pot off the heat.
  4. Add the chopped lemon chicken thighs, chicken broth, olive oil, sliced garlic, salt, and pepper to the pot.
  5. Place the pot over medium heat and cook, tossing frequently, about 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the garlic is fragrant.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in the grated Parmesan, and top with toasted walnuts before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh Parmesan for best flavor.
  • Toast walnuts in a dry skillet until fragrant.
  • Frozen broccoli can be used without thawing.