Why make this recipe
This Broccoli Pasta with Chicken is a perfect weeknight dish that brings your family together around the dinner table. It’s not only comforting and hearty, but it’s also healthy and made with wholesome ingredients. You can serve it in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy evenings. Plus, the combination of pasta, chicken, and broccoli creates a colorful and nutritious meal that even picky eaters might enjoy.
How to make Broccoli Pasta with Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a kick
Directions:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This keeps them bright and tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Now, combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the chicken in the pan. Toss everything together, adding the grated Parmesan cheese. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
Give it a good mix, let it simmer for a couple of minutes, and then it’s ready to serve!
How to serve Broccoli Pasta with Chicken
Serve this dish warm, right out of the pan. You can add extra Parmesan on top for a cheesy, satisfying finish. It pairs well with a simple green salad on the side. This meal is delightful on its own, but if your family likes a bit of crunch, you could also serve some toasted bread on the side.
How to store Broccoli Pasta with Chicken
If you have leftovers, simply let them cool before placing them in an airtight container. You can store the dish in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Tips to make Broccoli Pasta with Chicken
- Make it a one-pan meal: You can cook everything in one pan to save on dishes. Start with the chicken, add garlic, then the broccoli and pasta, and finish with cheese.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just chop them up and toss them in while cooking the chicken.
- Switch up the protein: If chicken isn’t your family’s favorite, use turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Variation
You can easily turn this into a creamy dish by adding a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of chicken broth or vegetable broth along with a bit of flour to thicken it up as it simmers. This can create a delicious creamy sauce that will be a hit with kids!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken, broccoli, and pasta earlier in the day. When it’s dinnertime, just toss everything together and heat it up.
What if I don’t have broccoli?
No problem! You can substitute with green beans, peas, or any other vegetable your family enjoys.
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes! Whole wheat pasta is a great option. It adds a bit more fiber and a nutty flavor that many enjoy.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with extra veggies or use chickpeas for protein. You can also substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast for a delicious dairy-free option.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before putting it in a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to eat!
Broccoli Pasta with Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
This comforting Broccoli Pasta with Chicken comes together in under 30 minutes for a healthy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 pound of chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a kick
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the chicken in the pan. Toss together, adding the grated Parmesan cheese. Optionally, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Mix well, let it simmer for a couple of minutes, and serve warm.
Notes
Serve with extra Parmesan on top and a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: broccoli pasta, chicken dinner, quick meal, healthy recipe, weeknight dinner