Chicken and broccoli pasta is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce over pasta. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights or when you need a wholesome, satisfying dinner.

Benefits of Making Chicken and Broccoli Pasta at Home

Preparing this dish at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier meal. It’s cost-effective compared to dining out, and you can customize it to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. Home-cooked meals also foster a sense of accomplishment and provide a great opportunity to involve family members in cooking.

Overview of the Recipe’s Simplicity and Deliciousness

This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. With basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a flavorful dish in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy parmesan sauce over al dente pasta results in a deliciously balanced meal that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress guests, chicken and broccoli pasta is a perfect choice.

Ingredients and Equipment

Detailed List of Ingredients with Measurements

2 cups of broccoli florets
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups milk

2 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Necessary Equipment for Preparation and Cooking

Large pot for boiling pasta
Steamer basket for broccoli

Skillet or frying pan for cooking chicken and making the sauce
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons

Sharp knife and cutting board
Whisk for sauce preparation
Colander for draining pasta

Tips for Choosing the Best Ingredients

Opt for fresh broccoli that is bright green and firm.
Choose high-quality chicken breasts, preferably organic or free-range.

Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for better flavor and texture.
Whole milk will give a richer sauce, but you can use low-fat for a lighter version.
Select pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like penne or fusilli.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Cutting the Broccoli into Small Florets

Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Using a sharp knife, cut the broccoli head into small, bite-sized florets. Discard any tough stems or save them for another recipe like a soup or stir-fry.

Cooking and Cubing the Chicken Breasts

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before cutting into bite-sized cubes.

Preparing Other Ingredients

Onions and Garlic: Peel and finely chop one small onion. Peel and mince two cloves of garlic. Set aside.

Parmesan Cheese: Grate one cup of parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-grated varieties.

Additional Tips

Organize all ingredients before starting to cook. This ensures a smooth cooking process and helps in managing time efficiently.

Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear.

Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli

Steps for Boiling the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add 8 ounces of your chosen pasta, such as penne or fusilli. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente.

Adding Broccoli in the Last 5 Minutes of Boiling

About 5 minutes before the pasta is fully cooked, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This timing ensures that the broccoli becomes tender yet remains crisp and retains its vibrant green color. Stir gently to combine the broccoli with the pasta.

Draining and Setting Aside Pasta and Broccoli

Once the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender, drain them together using a colander. Shake off any excess water and transfer the pasta and broccoli back into the pot or a large mixing bowl. Set aside until you are ready to combine them with the sauce and chicken.

This method streamlines the cooking process, saving time and reducing the number of dishes to clean. Properly cooked pasta and perfectly tender broccoli form the base for a delicious and balanced meal.

Making the Cream Sauce

Sautéing Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring it becomes fragrant but not burnt.

Adding Flour to Create a Roux

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously to combine the flour with the butter and onion mixture, forming a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it takes on a light golden color. This step helps to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Gradually Whisking in Milk to Avoid Lumps

Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk while continuously whisking the roux. Adding the milk gradually helps to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce. Continue to whisk until the sauce begins to thicken and becomes smooth. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the sauce has thickened, stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining Ingredients

Stirring in Parmesan Cheese Until Melted

Once the cream sauce has thickened, gradually add 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. The cheese adds a rich, savory flavor to the sauce, enhancing its overall taste.

Adding Cooked Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken to the Sauce

Gently add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the cream sauce. Also, add the cubed, cooked chicken. Using a large spoon or spatula, carefully fold the pasta, broccoli, and chicken into the sauce. Ensure all ingredients are well combined, with the sauce evenly coating the pasta, broccoli, and chicken.

Ensuring Everything is Well-Coated and Heated Through

Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Make sure the pasta and broccoli are thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce, and the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing with Additional Parmesan Cheese

For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top of the dish just before serving. This not only enhances the cheesy taste but also adds a nice texture contrast to the creamy sauce.

Suggested Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crispy garlic bread alongside the chicken and broccoli pasta to complement the creamy sauce. The crunchy texture pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the pasta dish.

Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing balance to the rich pasta. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion for a vibrant, nutritious side.

Presentation Tips for an Appealing Meal

Use a large, shallow bowl to serve the pasta, which allows for an attractive presentation of the ingredients.

Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
Arrange the pasta neatly in the bowl, ensuring an even distribution of chicken and broccoli pieces on top.
Serve with a lemon wedge on the side for an optional squeeze of citrus that brightens the flavors.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Alternative Ingredients

Vegetables: Swap broccoli with other veggies like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for a different flavor and texture.
Pasta Types: Use whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or other shapes like bowtie (farfalle) or rigatoni to suit your preferences.

Adjusting the Recipe for Dietary Preferences

Low-Fat Milk: Substitute whole milk with low-fat or skim milk to reduce the calorie and fat content.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk (like almond or soy) and vegan cheese, and replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegan version.

Adding Extra Flavors

Spices: Enhance the dish with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a dash of nutmeg in the cream sauce for a subtle warmth.
Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs such as basil, thyme, or oregano can be added to the sauce or as a garnish to elevate the flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

Proper Storage Techniques for Leftovers

After the meal, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature. Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Leftovers can typically be kept safely for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed well to maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from drying out.

Reheating Tips to Maintain Creaminess

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to the skillet and stir gently as it warms. This helps restore the sauce’s creaminess and prevents it from becoming too thick. Alternatively, you can microwave the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, adding a small amount of milk and covering it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

Advising Against Freezing Due to Sauce Separation

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the cream sauce tends to separate and become grainy when thawed and reheated. Freezing can alter the texture and flavor, making the dish less enjoyable. For best results, consume the leftovers within a few days from refrigeration.

FAQs

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, bowtie (farfalle), or even whole wheat and gluten-free varieties. The key is to choose a type that holds the sauce well.

How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker or Thinner?

To make the sauce thicker, cook it longer to reduce the liquid or add a bit more flour when creating the roux. For a thinner sauce, gradually add more milk until the desired consistency is reached.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it to maintain freshness and prevent moisture buildup.

Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Recipe?

Absolutely. You can incorporate vegetables like spinach, peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add variety and extra nutrients. Adjust cooking times as needed for different vegetables.

How Do I Prevent the Sauce from Separating When Reheating?

Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream and stirring continuously to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate.

Conclusion

Recap of the Recipe’s Benefits

Chicken and broccoli pasta is a wholesome and delicious dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy parmesan sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is easy to make, nutritious, and customizable to suit various dietary preferences.

Encouragement to Try the Recipe and Share Feedback

I encourage you to try this chicken and broccoli pasta recipe at home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Your feedback is valuable, so please share your experiences and any variations you tried. Your input helps others and enriches our culinary community.

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Author: Christine

Print Recipe

Description

This chicken and broccoli pasta recipe offers a perfect blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy parmesan sauce, making it a delightful and nutritious meal option for any occasion.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 5 minutes of cooking add the broccoli florets in the boiling water with the pasta.

Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.

Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring until smooth.

Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and diced chicken breasts to the pot with the parmesan sauce.

Stir until everything is well coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Transfer the Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad to a serving bowl.
Garnish with additional grated parmesan cheese, if desired.

Season to taste and serve hot.

Notes

Ensure to use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Adjust the recipe according to your dietary needs, and feel free to experiment with different vegetables or pasta types to keep it exciting and versatile.