Chicken Broccoli Pasta
If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, chicken broccoli pasta is the perfect dish. This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente pasta in a light sauce, making it a family favorite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into this delicious dish that brings together health and taste in one bowl!
Ingredients
– 200g pasta (fusilli or penne)
– 300g chicken breast, diced
– 250g broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, 35g protein, 50g carbohydrates, 10g fat, and 5g fiber, making it a balanced meal option for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add broccoli florets to the pan with chicken.
- Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the chicken and broccoli mixture.
- Toss everything together with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Additionally, other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can be added for more variety.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken broccoli pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, also complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen, but it’s best to add the cheese fresh upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; aim for al dente.
- Not seasoning the pasta water can result in bland pasta.
- Forgetting to drain excess water from the pasta will dilute the sauce.
- Using old broccoli can lead to a bitter taste.
- Not allowing the chicken to brown properly can affect flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.
- Experiment with different cheeses for added flavor.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best taste.
- Add lemon juice for a fresh flavor boost.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used; just add it directly to the pan while cooking the chicken. It may need a minute or two longer to cook through.
What type of pasta works best?
Any pasta shape works well, but fusilli or penne hold the sauce nicely, making every bite flavorful.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when ready to serve, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Is this dish gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How can I add more flavor?
Consider adding herbs like oregano or thyme during cooking, or stir in some cream for a richer sauce.
Conclusion
Chicken broccoli pasta is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be tailored to your taste preferences. With its easy preparation and delectable flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta fusilli or penne
- 300 g chicken breast diced
- 250 g broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add broccoli florets to the pan with chicken.
- Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the chicken and broccoli mixture.
- Toss everything together with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
