If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal, then this chicken and broccoli pasta is just what you need! It’s packed with protein from the chicken and loaded with vitamins from the broccoli, making it a smart choice for any weeknight dinner. I love that it comes together in just about 25 minutes, which means you can whip it up even on the busiest days. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a light garlic olive oil sauce is simply irresistible. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation for those nights when you need something comforting yet nutritious. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can easily tweak it to suit your taste! So, let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 8 ounces of uncooked pasta (your choice, I like penne or rotini)
- 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
- 2 chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (fresh is best, trust me!)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper (freshly ground is always nicer)
- 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for that delicious finishing touch)
How to Prepare Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt—this really helps flavor the pasta! Once the water’s boiling, toss in your 8 ounces of uncooked pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. You want it al dente, so check it a minute or two before the time is up. Grab a piece and give it a taste! When it’s done, drain the pasta but don’t rinse it—this helps the sauce stick later!
Preparing the Chicken and Broccoli
While your pasta is cooking, let’s get that chicken sizzling! In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering (about 1-2 minutes), add your diced chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re golden brown and cooked through—nobody likes undercooked chicken! Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, toss in your fresh broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and tender. Yum!
Combining Ingredients
Now for the magic moment! Once your broccoli is ready and your pasta is drained, combine them in the pot with the chicken. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper—taste it and adjust if you need! Finally, sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and give it one last toss. Serve it up warm, and enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade chicken and broccoli pasta!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: This chicken and broccoli pasta comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Health-conscious: Packed with lean protein and nutrients from the broccoli, it’s a wholesome meal that won’t weigh you down.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously savory dish that you’ll crave!
- Versatile: You can easily swap out ingredients—try using different veggies or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
- Kid-approved: With its colorful ingredients and tasty flavors, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Tips for Success
To make sure your chicken and broccoli pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, don’t overcook your pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for a fresh, zesty kick. Also, swapping out the chicken for tofu or shrimp is a fantastic way to change things up while keeping it just as delicious! For a pop of color, consider tossing in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers along with the broccoli. And don’t forget to plate it beautifully—garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley to impress your family or guests. Trust me, a little extra effort goes a long way in making your dish shine!
Variations
One of the best things about chicken and broccoli pasta is how easily you can customize it to fit your taste! For a fresh twist, try adding some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness. If you’re a fan of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes for a little kick! Herbs can bring a whole new layer of flavor—basil and oregano work wonderfully, or even a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish. Feeling adventurous? Swap out the broccoli for asparagus or spinach, or add mushrooms for an earthy touch. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
This chicken and broccoli pasta is not only delicious but also a smart choice for your health! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g (Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 2g)
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portions used. It’s a wholesome meal that nourishes your body without skimping on flavor!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this chicken and broccoli pasta. Just add it to the pot a couple of minutes before the chicken is done cooking, and it will thaw and cook nicely.
What type of pasta works best?
Honestly, it’s all about personal preference! I love using penne or rotini because they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and broccoli in advance, but I recommend cooking the pasta fresh just before serving to keep everything perfectly al dente.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or a little water to keep it from drying out. Stir until heated through, and you’re good to go!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your chicken and broccoli pasta is super easy! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those tasty leftovers without any fuss. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to portion it out before freezing for easy meals later on!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a little water to prevent sticking and keep it moist. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also pop it in the microwave, but do it in short intervals and stir in between to ensure even heating. Enjoy your delicious chicken and broccoli pasta again!
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: 25 Minutes to Pure Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and healthy chicken and broccoli pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add broccoli and cook until tender.
- Combine chicken and broccoli with cooked pasta.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Swap chicken for tofu for a vegetarian dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken and broccoli pasta
