This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a family favorite! It combines tender chicken pieces, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all tossed in a light, tasty sauce.
I love how quick it comes together on busy nights. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! Just one bowl of this goodness and you’re ready to conquer the day! 🍝💪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This twisty shape holds onto the sauce really well, but feel free to use other shapes like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen works too! Just add it to the boiling water a minute earlier.
Chicken Breasts: I prefer using skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but thighs can add more flavor and tenderness. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep.
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter version, try half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut, but keep in mind this will change the creaminess level.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for perfect melting. If you can’t find Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan touch!
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken to perfection is key for this dish! Start by cutting it into uniform bite-sized pieces, which helps it cook evenly. Here’s the best way to do it:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and season it right away; this locks in flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—cook in batches if needed, so it browns nicely.
- Look for a golden color, which takes about 6-8 minutes, and make sure it’s cooked through (no pink inside).
Following these steps ensures juicy chicken that complements the creamy sauce and veggies beautifully!
Chicken And Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning & Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
- Fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping and boiling the pasta, while the cooking of the chicken and sauce will take about 15 minutes. So, it’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 7-10 minutes. For the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot with the pasta. Drain both the pasta and broccoli together, then set aside.
2. Sautéing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
3. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, carefully pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Let the mixture gently simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken just a bit.
4. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
Once your sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Next, add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are coated in the creamy sauce and heated through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. If you like a kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top. Enjoy this delicious, comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, add it to the boiling pasta water about 2 minutes before the pasta is done cooking. This will ensure it’s heated through and tender.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and cornstarch. For a non-dairy choice, try coconut milk or almond milk, though this will alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken And Broccoli Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it gently or warm on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly according to the vegetables you choose.