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Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

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This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and pasta come together in a light yet flavorful sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is satisfying, nutritious, and easy to customize for different dietary preferences!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
  • 3-4 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli to the boiling water.
  • Drain pasta and broccoli together; set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

  • While pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add chicken pieces, cooking until browned and fully cooked (6-7 minutes).
  • Season with salt and pepper; transfer to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil (if needed) and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in chicken broth or heavy cream and stir, scraping up browned bits.
  • Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

4. Combine Everything:

  • Return cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet.
  • Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese (if using) and adjust seasoning.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

  • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan as needed.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make It Creamy: Use heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
  • Boost the Flavor: Add red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or fresh basil.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep pasta from drying out.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure broth is gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan or use dairy-free cheese substitutes.

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/chicken-and-broccoli-pasta/