Here’s a delicious recipe for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli that’s simple to make and packed with flavor:
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth (or more for desired consistency)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets in the last 3-4 minutes of cooking to blanch them.
- Once the pasta and broccoli are done, drain and set them aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- While the pasta and broccoli cook, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or cubes.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until everything is well coated.
- Add the sliced chicken on top or stir it in, depending on your preference.
5. Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your creamy, savory chicken pasta with broccoli!
Tips:
- Chicken Variations: You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Add-ins: For extra flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce.
- Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
This recipe is creamy, comforting, and a great balance of protein, veggies, and pasta. Enjoy!