Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a simple, flavorful dish packed with protein and nutrients, making it a fantastic option for homemade cooking. Forget complicated recipes; this one is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne 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. Season with salt and pepper.
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Add Broccoli and Garlic: Add the broccoli florets and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and broccoli. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade meal!
Tips for the Best Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a brighter flavor and better texture than frozen.
- Add some spice: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the garlic.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese along with the Parmesan cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Spicy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are quick to prepare, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you still want a healthy and satisfying meal. This chicken and broccoli penne pasta recipe is one of the best recipes you can easily make at home. Enjoy!