Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli for a perfect weeknight meal!
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups medium shells pasta uncooked
- 4 cups chopped broccoli
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- 2-1/4 teaspoons salt divided
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning divided
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional
- 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and dice the chicken breasts into small cubes. Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the medium shells pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli to the pot. Drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander, and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried thyme (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream, remaining salt, and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta and broccoli. Stir everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the creamy sauce. Gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Meat Thermometer
- Wooden Spoon
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- You can freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.