Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta
A delightful one-pot dish combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and comforting pasta in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 breasts 2 chicken breasts, diced Tender pieces that will soak up all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon olive oil A heart-healthy oil for perfect sautéing.
- 2 cups 2 cups broccoli florets Vibrant green bursts add both nutrition and texture.
- 3 cloves 3 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and savory, enriching the dish.
- 1 cup 1 cup heavy cream For that luscious, creamy consistency.
- 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups chicken broth A flavorful base that ties everything together.
- 8 ounces 8 ounces penne pasta Perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a savory, cheesy depth.
- 0.5 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano A hint of herby fragrance.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning all ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish) A pop of color and fresh flavor.
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, penne pasta, and dried oregano. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the broccoli florets and cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and chicken is heated through.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve in bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Prep ahead by chopping veggies and dicing chicken for quicker cooking. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should be tender but bright green.