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Chicken and Broccoli Pasta


  • Author: Christophe
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Description

A creamy, savory pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan sauce. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining guests.


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the pasta:
    • 8 oz penne pasta
    • 2 cups broccoli, cut into small florets
  • For the sauce and chicken:
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 small onion, diced
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 tsp black pepper
    • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
    • 2 cups whole milk
    • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • For the chicken:
    • 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced into small cubes

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the pasta and broccoli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.

2️⃣ Sauté the aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

3️⃣ Make the roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.

4️⃣ Prepare the sauce:
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

5️⃣ Add the cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it has melted completely, creating a creamy, smooth sauce.

6️⃣ Combine the pasta:
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and diced chicken to the pot with the Parmesan sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated and warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.

7️⃣ Serve:
Transfer the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make it your own: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap Parmesan with Asiago or Romano for a flavor twist.
  • Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4