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Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

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Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a creamy, one-skillet comfort food dish made with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and pasta tossed in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s quick, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 tbsp butter (plus more as needed)
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or preferred shape)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Add broccoli during the last 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add a little more butter to the skillet if needed, then sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and simmer until slightly thickened.
  5. Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
  6. Finish with red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or Italian seasoning if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce.
  • Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for extra flavor.
  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Thicken sauce with extra Parmesan or a bit of flour whisked into the butter before adding cream.

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