Delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe Delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Chicken and broccoli pasta is a classic dish that combines the hearty flavors of chicken with the vibrant, nutritious appeal of broccoli, all tossed together with pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This meal is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Here's how to make this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients:
Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Pasta and Broccoli:

12 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite type)
2 cups broccoli florets
Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
During the last 2-3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
Once both the pasta and broccoli are tender, drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Everything:

Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Serve:

Divide the chicken and broccoli pasta among plates.
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
Cooking Chicken: Ensure the chicken breasts are cooked evenly by pounding them to an even thickness before cooking. This helps them cook more uniformly and stay juicy.
Pasta Choice: Use your favorite type of pasta or whatever you have on hand. Penne, fusilli, and fettuccine all work well with this dish.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
This chicken and broccoli pasta recipe is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the wholesome flavors of chicken and broccoli. It's sure to become a favorite in your household for its simplicity and deliciousness. Enjoy your meal