Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Broccoli Chicken and Pasta recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. It's packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a fantastic choice for the whole family. This easy recipe is perfect for those exploring homemade cooking and looking for quick dinner ideas. It's one of the best recipes for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape)
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Broccoli and Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
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Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Season and Serve: Stir in the salt and pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (optional) and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the broccoli: You want it to be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Use high-quality olive oil: It makes a difference in the flavor of the dish.
- Season to taste: Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
- Add some spice: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the garlic.
Delicious Variations:
- Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Broccoli Chicken Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the skillet with the pasta and chicken.
- Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese, or add other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
- Vegetable Boost: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the skillet with the broccoli.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fat: 15-20g
This Broccoli Chicken and Pasta recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week. It's a great way to enjoy a balanced and flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!