Description
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a flavorful garlic cream sauce. It’s quick to make and ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated with sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Frozen broccoli can be used if fresh is unavailable—just thaw before adding.
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American