Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a comforting and delicious meal that can be made in just 30 minutes. The dish features tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli florets smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and served over al dente pasta. The combination of the creamy sauce and the savory chicken and broccoli makes this a satisfying and flavorful meal that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
To make this dish, start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, cook the chicken and broccoli in a skillet until the chicken is no longer pink and the broccoli is tender-crisp. Then, add a homemade cheese sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheese to the skillet and stir until the sauce is smooth and bubbly. Combine the sauce with the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli, and serve immediately. This dish can be customized with different types of cheese, pasta, and vegetables to suit your tastes and preferences.
This recipe is a great option for a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will enjoy. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and fresh broccoli is simply irresistible. The recipe calls for penne pasta, but you could also use other pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni. The key is to cook the pasta al dente, so that it retains a bit of texture and bite.
Introduction:
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a tasty, comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. With tender chunks of chicken, nutritious broccoli florets, and plenty of melty cheese, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
To make this recipe, you will need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it is fragrant.
6. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
7. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cover with a lid.
8. Cook the broccoli for 3-4 minutes, until it is bright green and tender.
9. Remove the lid from the skillet and add the heavy cream.
10. Stir the cream into the broccoli and bring the mixture to a simmer.
11. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the skillet and stir until it is melted and fully incorporated.
12. Add the cooked penne pasta and the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir until everything is well combined.
13. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and chicken mixture.
14. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
Be sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces so that it cooks evenly. Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. If you want to lighten up the recipe, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Don’t skip the step of adding the chicken broth to the skillet – it helps to deglaze the pan and adds extra flavor to the dish. If you prefer a spicier pasta dish, you can add red pepper flakes to the skillet when you add the garlic.
Variations:
Use different types of pasta, such as fusilli or farfalle, for a different texture. Swap out the broccoli for another green vegetable, such as asparagus or spinach. Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a different flavor profile. Add some cooked bacon or pancetta to the skillet for extra richness and flavor.
Nutritional Information:
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Each serving contains:
Calories: 634
Total Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 142mg
Sodium: 587mg
Total Carbohydrates: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 39g
Conclusion:
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings. With tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and plenty of melty cheese, this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pasta shapes, vegetables, and cheeses. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious dinner tonight!
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or on the stove.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw it before cooking.
Q: Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy and rich.
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes, you can freeze this recipe, but keep in mind that the texture of the pasta and broccoli may change when thawed.
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