Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and al dente pasta, all tossed in a savory garlic and Parmesan sauce. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, balanced, and flavorful dinner. The addition of chicken broth and Parmesan cheese elevates the dish, creating a comforting and creamy sauce without being overly rich.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Directions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet, cooking until the broccoli is tender, about 4-5 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add other vegetables: Include vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Creamy version: For a creamier dish, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the skillet after adding the chicken broth.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the pasta has dried out.

10 FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or farfalle, will work perfectly for this recipe.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the chicken, broccoli, and pasta ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Can I add a sauce to this dish? Yes, if you prefer a saucier dish, you can add more chicken broth or a bit of olive oil and toss in some heavy cream or cheese for a richer sauce.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breast? Yes, cooked rotisserie chicken can be used for an even quicker preparation.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative or omit it entirely. You can also use a dairy-free broth.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers, but the texture of the broccoli may change once thawed. To freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What other proteins can I use? You can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick, easy, and wholesome dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s versatile enough to accommodate various ingredients, making it customizable to your preferences. With a simple yet delicious combination of chicken, broccoli, pasta, and a flavorful Parmesan sauce, this meal is sure to please the entire family. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or make a few variations, this dish is bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation.