Description

Looking for a dish that combines creamy indulgence with wholesome ingredients? Look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe delivers tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce all tossed with fettuccine. It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups broccoli florets
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 pound fettuccine pasta

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add 4 cups of broccoli florets. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Remove the broccoli and set aside.

Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Add Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning. Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, about 3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet, stirring to coat them with the sauce. Let them warm through for a couple of minutes.

Cook the Pasta

While preparing the sauce, cook 1 pound of fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet, tossing to combine everything evenly.

Serve

Serve the creamy chicken and broccoli pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy a satisfying and hearty meal that’s as delicious as it is comforting!

Notes

Serving Tips

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor of your pasta by garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This adds a burst of color and freshness to each serving.
Serve with Extra Parmesan: Offer additional grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who love a cheesy finish to their meal.
Pair with a Side Salad: Serve your creamy chicken and broccoli pasta with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to create a well-rounded meal.
Keep it Warm: If you’re serving the pasta in a buffet-style setting or preparing it ahead of time, keep it warm in a covered dish placed over a low heat source to maintain its creamy texture.
Adjust Consistency: If the pasta sauce thickens upon standing, you can loosen it with a splash of chicken broth or a bit of milk, stirring well before serving.

Storage Tips

Cool Before Storing: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Freeze for Later: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Avoid Freezing with Broccoli: If you plan to freeze leftovers, consider removing the broccoli or adding it fresh when reheating. Broccoli can become mushy after freezing and reheating.
Reheat Evenly: When reheating, stir the pasta frequently to ensure even heating and prevent the sauce from separating.