Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
4 Serving
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Calories
491 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Italian
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Description
The dish starts with seasoning chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cooking it until no longer pink. Shallots and garlic are sautéed in the same skillet to build flavor, followed by simmering broccoli in chicken broth until tender. Cooked pasta is combined with the chicken and broccoli mixture, then cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese are stirred in, forming a creamy sauce coating the ingredients evenly.
The blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan adds depth and richness to the sauce, complementing the mild chicken and fresh broccoli. The texture contrasts the tender pasta and chicken with the slight bite of the cooked broccoli.
This pasta dish is suited for a fulfilling dinner and pairs well with simple sides or salads. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
The notes mention adding a bit of pasta cooking water if the cheese sauce is too dry and confirm the importance of salting pasta water at boil time for best results. For softer broccoli, you may cook it with the pasta directly.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast diced
- 1-2 shallot
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 1 broccoli head
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- salt pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large nonstick skillet, cook the chicken until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- To the same skillet, add the shallots and garlic.
- Cook until they’re softened, then add in the broccoli and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli and toss. Add in the cheddar and parmesan cheese, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Add reserved pasta cooking water if the cheese sauce seems dry to achieve desired creaminess.
- Salt the pasta water only once it starts boiling to avoid prolonging the boiling time.
- For softer broccoli, cook it together with the pasta during boiling.