Welcome to a delightful fusion of flavors and textures with our Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta. Perfect for those evenings when the craving for comfort food strikes, this dish is not only delicious but also wholesome, thanks to its savory chicken and nutrient-rich broccoli. Let’s dive into the kitchen and explore how to create this creamy sensation.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 12 ounces pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Frying pan
- Colander
- Cooking spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Wash and chop the broccoli into florets. Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside. Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth culinary process.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a saucepan, bring salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden on all sides and no longer pink in the center. This should take about 6-7 minutes.
Step 4: Steam the Broccoli
Meanwhile, steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender yet slightly crisp.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Sauce
In the same frying pan as the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for a few minutes. Add the heavy cream and Italian herbs, stirring continuously to create a creamy sauce.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the cream sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together to ensure even coating with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of Italian herbs for a perfect finish. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To elevate your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta, ensure that the chicken is fully cooked before integrating with other ingredients. Consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist. Don’t forget to adjust seasoning as you cook to suit your personal preferences.
Pumped Up Protein: High Protein Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Elevate your pasta game by boosting its protein content. Swap regular pasta for a high-protein variety made from chickpeas or lentils. Add a handful of chickpeas or tofu for an extra protein kick. This makes it perfect for fitness enthusiasts who crave indulging without straying from their dietary goals.
Low Carb Delight: Keto-Friendly Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Transform this classic dish into a low-carb delight by replacing pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Not only do these alternatives cut down on carbs, but they also add a fresh, crunchy texture to the meal, enhancing your culinary experience while maintaining a keto-friendly profile.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the excess water for best results.
- What pasta works best? Penne, fusilli, or farfalle are excellent choices for holding the sauce.
- Is there a dairy-free option? Yes, try coconut cream or oat milk as an alternative to heavy cream.
- How do I make it spicier? Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- broccoli florets
- pasta
- olive oil
- heavy cream
- chicken broth
- garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- dried Italian herbs
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Wash and chop the broccoli into florets. Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
- In a saucepan, bring salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden on all sides.
- Meanwhile, steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot for about 4–5 minutes until they are tender yet slightly crisp.
- In the same frying pan as the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the cream sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and toss everything together.