Description
A comforting and satisfying dish combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy cheese in a flavorful pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless chicken (breast or thighs), diced
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Broccoli and Garlic: Stir in chopped broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and mix in heavy cream. Gradually add cheese, stirring until melted, adjusting with reserved pasta water if too thick.
- Combine and Serve: Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it is well-coated. Serve immediately with extra cheese and herbs if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with grilled tofu. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken pasta, broccoli pasta, comfort food, family recipe, quick dinner