Name: Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients: Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a lean protein source. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor, though they are slightly higher in fat.; Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets work best, as they provide a nice texture and vibrant color to the dish. Frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch but may have a slightly softer texture after cooking.; Pasta: Any type of pasta works for this recipe, but fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni are great choices for holding the creamy sauce. Whole-wheat pasta is a good option for added fiber.; Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps create the creamy texture for the sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.; Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds saltiness and depth to the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan works best for maximum flavor.; Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic flavor to the dish. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.; Olive Oil: Used to sauté the chicken and garlic, adding flavor and preventing sticking.; Flour: Used to thicken the sauce, making it creamy and smooth.; Chicken Broth: Adds flavor to the sauce base and helps create the right consistency.; Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to taste, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

Description

Try this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for a rich, hearty meal that’s perfect for dinner or a special family occasion.

Ingredients

Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a lean protein source. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor, though they are slightly higher in fat.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets work best, as they provide a nice texture and vibrant color to the dish. Frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch but may have a slightly softer texture after cooking.
Pasta: Any type of pasta works for this recipe, but fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni are great choices for holding the creamy sauce. Whole-wheat pasta is a good option for added fiber.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps create the creamy texture for the sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option or use a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds saltiness and depth to the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan works best for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic flavor to the dish. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté the chicken and garlic, adding flavor and preventing sticking.
Flour: Used to thicken the sauce, making it creamy and smooth.
Chicken Broth: Adds flavor to the sauce base and helps create the right consistency.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to taste, enhancing the flavors of the dish.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Make the Sauce: Add flour to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
Add the Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, stirring to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it to the dish.
Serve: Serve the creamy chicken and broccoli pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.