Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, delicious, and surprisingly healthy meal that’s quick to make? Then look no further! This creamy Chicken Broccoli and Ziti Alfredo is the perfect answer. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked ziti, all swimming in a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to elevate your easy recipes game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package directions, until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain both the pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
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. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it's melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked ziti, broccoli, and cooked chicken to the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a healthier version: Use reduced-fat heavy cream or a combination of heavy cream and milk. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a little heat.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Make it cheesy: Add a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top before serving for extra cheesy goodness.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish makes great leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Chicken Broccoli and Ziti Alfredo is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s easy to customize to your liking, and the creamy Alfredo sauce is simply irresistible. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece! It’s one of the best recipes for a quick and healthy dinner you’ll ever try. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your collection of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes.