Chicken And Broccoli Pasta

by

Satisfy your cravings with our delectable Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Delight Pasta recipe. Bursting with flavors and textures, this dish is a perfect balance of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy sauce enveloping every bite of pipe rigate pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 16 ounces pipe rigate pasta (or your favorite pasta)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2½ cups milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
  • 3-ounce bag sun-dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions for al dente. During the last three minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, then return them to the pan. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
  2. Cook the Chicken Mixture: In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, diced onions, minced garlic, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the onions are tender.
  3. Create the Creamy Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the chicken mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in the milk and vegetable broth, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the sharp cheddar cheese and stir until melted and combined.
  4. Combine and Serve: Pour the creamy sauce over the cooked pasta, broccoli, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread with butter or garlic bread.

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Calories per Serving: 640 kcal
  • Servings: 4 servings

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Presentation is Key: When serving your creamy chicken and broccoli pasta, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for a touch of freshness and flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness.
  2. Family Style or Individual Plates: Decide whether you want to serve this dish family-style, allowing everyone to dig in from a communal bowl, or plated individually for a more elegant presentation. Either way, make sure to distribute the chicken, broccoli, and pasta evenly for a balanced meal.
  3. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish reheats beautifully, either in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore the creamy consistency of the sauce.
  4. Freezing Options: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftover portions for future meals. Transfer cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  5. Pairing Suggestions: Serve your creamy chicken and broccoli pasta alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a tangy balsamic glaze. For a heartier meal, add a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for dipping into the sauce.
  6. Adapt to Dietary Needs: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your dietary preferences or restrictions. You can use whole wheat pasta for added fiber, substitute dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option, or incorporate additional vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

Variations:

  1. Creamy Alfredo Style: For a decadent twist, replace the vegetable broth with heavy cream and omit the flour. Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli in a creamy Alfredo sauce made with butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of white wine for added richness.
  2. Spicy Cajun Kick: Give your dish a spicy kick by seasoning the chicken with Cajun seasoning instead of Slap Ya Mama® seasoning. Add diced bell peppers and sliced spicy sausage to the skillet for a flavorful Cajun-inspired twist. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for added freshness.
  3. Mushroom Medley: Enhance the earthy flavors by adding sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the chicken and onions. Sauté until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
  4. Italian-Inspired: Transform this recipe into an Italian-inspired dish by using Italian seasoning instead of Slap Ya Mama® seasoning. Add diced tomatoes and spinach to the skillet for a burst of color and freshness. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Pesto Perfection: For a vibrant and herby variation, stir in a few tablespoons of basil pesto into the creamy sauce before combining it with the pasta and broccoli. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.
  6. Lemon Garlic Twist: Infuse the dish with a burst of citrusy flavor by adding lemon zest and juice to the creamy sauce. Sauté the chicken with extra garlic and lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty twist. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
    • Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh in this recipe. Simply thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking.
  2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    • Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape or whatever you have on hand. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle would work well in this dish.
  3. Is there a substitute for Slap Ya Mama® seasoning?
    • If you don’t have Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, you can use a combination of salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to taste.
  4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
    • Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
  5. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
    • To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Indulge in the creamy comfort of our Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe, a delightful combination of tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and rich, cheesy sauce. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Treat yourself to a taste sensation that will leave you craving more!