Indulge in the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a luxuriously creamy sauce. This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is the epitome of a quick, delicious weeknight dinner that will satisfy your entire family’s cravings. With its rich, velvety texture and perfectly balanced flavors, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal you can easily prepare at home.
Ingredients
- US Measurements: 12 oz pasta of your choice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 chicken breast fillets (diced), 10.5 oz broccoli florets, 4 garlic cloves (minced), 1.5 cups heavy cream, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup chicken broth, Salt and pepper to taste
- Metric Measurements: 340g pasta, 30ml olive oil, 2 chicken breast fillets (diced), 300g broccoli florets, 4 garlic cloves (minced), 360ml heavy cream, 50g grated Parmesan cheese, 120ml chicken broth, Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and is completely cooked through.
3. Add Aromatics
Introduce minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for approximately 30 seconds. The garlic will release its fragrant aroma, adding depth to the dish’s flavor profile.
4. Incorporate Broccoli
Add broccoli florets to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes. Look for a bright green color and a slightly tender texture, which indicates the broccoli is perfectly cooked while maintaining its nutritional value.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine the ingredients. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes, watching it gradually thicken and become more luxurious.
6. Combine and Finish
Add the previously cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to ensure every strand is beautifully coated with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and rich coating.
Cooking Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 550 calories
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta
- Use fresh garlic for the most intense flavor
- Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like penne or fusilli
- Don’t overcook the broccoli – it should remain bright and slightly crisp
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor
Storage and Reheating
This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or additional vegetables
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta
- Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk
Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Perfection – a dish that promises to become a family favorite!