It was a chilly evening, and I wanted to make something warm and comforting for dinner. I had some chicken in the fridge and a bunch of fresh broccoli. As I looked around my kitchen, I thought about how nice it would be to combine them with pasta for a creamy dish. The idea of “Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Delight” popped into my head, and I felt excited to try it out!
Gathering My Ingredients
I gathered my ingredients: chicken, broccoli, pasta, and a few pantry staples like cream, garlic, and cheese. I put on my favorite apron, ready to cook. First, I boiled a pot of water for the pasta while I chopped the chicken into bite-sized pieces. The smell of the garlic sizzling in the pan filled my kitchen, making my stomach rumble and the creamy sauce coating the pasta and the bright green broccoli mixed in.
Cooking with Care
As the chicken turned golden brown, I added the broccoli to the pot of boiling water. I wanting it to stay bright and crisp. Once the pasta was cooked, I drained it and added it to the pan with the chicken. Then, I poured in the cream, stirring everything together. I love to cook Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Deligh. The sauce became rich and thick, and the cheese melted into the mix, creating a delightful aroma that filled the air. I couldn’t wait to taste my creation!
Finally, I served the “Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Delight” in bowls and called my family to the table. Their eyes lit up when they saw the dish. As we sat down to eat, I felt proud of what I had made. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and we laughed and shared stories, enjoying the warmth of good food and each other’s company. That night, I knew I had created something special that would bring us together for many dinners to come.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Delight
- Always use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh broccoli and high-quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Make sure to cook the fettuccine just until al dente (firm to the bite) to avoid mushy pasta once it’s combined with the sauce.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated. It melts better and has a more robust flavor. Consider mixing in some Pecorino Romano for added depth.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess. This will also help the sauce adhere better to the pasta.
- Don’t hesitate to customize the dish! You can add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition and color. For a protein boost, consider adding some cooked shrimp or sausage.
- Serve with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. A side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish.
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Delight
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes1092
kcal30
minutesDive into a bowl of creamy, dreamy pasta with our Chicken Broccoli Pasta Delight! This dish is a symphony of flavors, combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a hit with both adults and kids alike. Imagine the joy of serving a meal that’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Channel your inner chef and impress your family with this delightful dish!
Ingredients
12 ounces fettuccine noodles
2 cups broccoli florets
1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts diced into bite-sized pieces
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic minced finely
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions
- **Preparing the Broccoli** – Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. In the meantime, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and season lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 4 minutes until they turn bright green and tender-crisp.
- **Cooking the Chicken** – In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and spread the chicken pieces evenly. Season with salt and pepper and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer both the broccoli and chicken to a bowl.
- **Making the Alfredo Sauce** – Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and slightly bubbling.
- **Combining Everything** – Cook the fettuccine in the boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce in the skillet and toss well to coat. Mix in the chicken and broccoli, adding reserved pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated parmesan cheese as it melts better into the sauce. Serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Feel free to add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition!
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 1092kcal
- Fat: 52g
- Saturated Fat: 28g
- Cholesterol: 230mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 900mg
- Carbohydrates: 90.8g
- Fiber: 4.9g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 63.9g
- Vitamin A: 1500IU
- Vitamin C: 80mg
- Calcium: 400mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQ-Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Delight
Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of fettuccine?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great alternative! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary from regular fettuccine.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken, broccoli, and sauce in advance. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and milk. You can also use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for lower fat content.
What can I serve with Chicken Broccoli Pasta Delight?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with a light soup for a complete meal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s possible to freeze leftovers, creamy sauces can sometimes separate when thawed. To maintain the best texture, consider freezing the chicken and broccoli separately from the pasta, and reheat them together with a bit of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
