Chicken & Broccoli Pasta – A Creamy Comfort
Chicken & Broccoli Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner. It combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta in a rich Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re craving penne Alfredo with broccoli or fettuccine Alfredo with chicken, this dish satisfies every creamy, cheesy craving. Let’s dive into this delightful pasta Alfredo broccoli chicken recipe!
Ingredients for Chicken & Broccoli Pasta:
- 400g pasta (penne, ziti, or fettuccine)
- 2 FreshToHome chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (broccoli and pasta with chicken)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta (chicken with ziti or fettuccine works great).
- Cook according to package instructions, adding broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Toss the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time.
- Cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Perfect Pairings for Chicken & Broccoli Pasta:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is the perfect sidekick to this creamy chicken broccoli pasta. Its crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth Alfredo sauce.
- Green Salad: A fresh side salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted asparagus, carrots, or zucchini complement the flavours of broccoli pasta with chicken.
Recipe Variations:
- Swap the Pasta: Experiment with ziti and chicken, fettuccine, or any pasta you have on hand for a twist.
- Light Alfredo: Replace heavy cream with a mix of milk and flour for a lighter sauce.
- Add More Veggies: Enhance the dish with mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red chilli flakes for a touch of heat.
Serving Ideas:
This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is versatile and fits any meal:
- Family Dinner: A cosy option for busy weeknights.
- Meal Prep: Store portions for easy, reheatable lunches.
- Potluck Star: A crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with other pasta dishes. Like broccoli Alfredo fettuccine.
Conclusion:
Chicken pasta Alfredo with broccoli is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli make it both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you crave chicken Alfredo fettuccine with broccoli or want to try ziti with chicken, this recipe is versatile and delicious. It’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy a meal that brings smiles all around!