Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
A delightful dish that combines juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and tender pasta in a creamy, garlicky sauce, perfect for busy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta of choice You can use rotini, penne, or fettuccine.
- 1 pound fresh chicken breast Delivers juicy bites when cooked properly.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Adds color and nutrition.
- 3 cloves minced garlic Enhances the flavor profile.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Introduces a rich, cheesy essence.
- ½ cup heavy cream Creates the creamy consistency.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing the chicken.
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Gather all the ingredients on your kitchen counter.
Cooking Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cooking Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden-brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
Combining Ingredients
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crunchy.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Allow chicken to rest before slicing to keep it juicy. For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes with garlic. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the dish.