Description
A comforting dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta in a rich, creamy sauce, evoking family traditions and joyful gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli and Garlic: In the same skillet, add more butter or oil if needed. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add broccoli and a splash of water. Steam until bright green, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat, add heavy cream, and stir. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
- Combine Everything: Return chicken to skillet, add drained pasta, and toss. Add reserved pasta water as needed. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh herbs and additional Parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
Great for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Can substitute shrimp or tofu for the chicken and use a lighter cream alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken, pasta, broccoli, family recipe, comfort food