Broccoli pasta chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to make, this Broccoli Pasta Chicken recipe is perfect for you!

Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it’s a dish that the whole family will enjoy.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente pasta in a tasty sauce, making it a balanced meal. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate lean protein and veggies into your diet while keeping the flavors deliciously appealing.

How To Make Broccoli Pasta Chicken

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pasta of your choice
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

3-Step Directions:

1. Cook Pasta & Chicken: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 7–10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Add Vegetables & Combine: Add broccoli to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, until tender but still bright green.
3. Toss & Serve: Stir in the cooked pasta and toss everything together. Add Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and evenly coated. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving has approximately 350 calories, 30g of protein, and 10g of fat.

How To Serve Broccoli Pasta Chicken

Serve this dish warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.

How To Store Broccoli Pasta Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the pasta moist.

Tips To Make Broccoli Pasta Chicken

• Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Use whole-grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavors.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

This Broccoli Pasta Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also very nutritious. It’s high in protein from the chicken, which helps build and repair tissues. Broccoli adds essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and K, which support your immune system and bone health. Additionally, this meal is low in unhealthy fats, making it a well-balanced choice for a healthy diet.

Variation (If Any)

You can customize this dish by adding different ingredients such as cherry tomatoes or mushrooms, or you can change the sauce to a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance and cook when ready to serve.

   
   

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Freezing is possible, but the texture of the pasta may change upon reheating.

   
   

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   You can use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

   
   

4. What can I use instead of chicken?
   Tofu, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be used as a protein substitute.

   
   

5. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
   Omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast.

   
   

6. Can I use frozen broccoli instead?
   Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

   
   

7. What sauces can I add for extra flavor?
   A splash of cream, pesto, or a squeeze of lemon can enhance the flavor.