Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Introduction:

Looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that’s quick to whip up on a busy weeknight? Our Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe is the perfect solution! This delicious dish combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and al dente pasta, all coated in a savory sauce that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make it!

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
• 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. In a large pot, cook pasta according to package instructions for al dente. Add broccoli to the pasta in the last three minutes of cooking. Drain and return to the pan. Add chopped dried tomatoes.
2. In a large skillet or frying pan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add chicken, onions, seasonings, and red pepper flakes to the pan and cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and onions are tender.
4. Sprinkle flour over the chicken mixture, stir, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour milk and chicken broth into the skillet, stir, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
6. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add cheese and stir until combined.
7. Pour the sauce mixture into the pasta and broccoli. Stir to combine.
8. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread with butter or garlic bread.
9. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
10. Kcal: 640 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Serving:

1. Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta immediately after preparing for the best taste and texture.
2. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Consider serving the pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
4. For a touch of extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving just before serving.
5. Arrange the pasta neatly on plates or in pasta bowls for an attractive presentation that will impress your guests.

Storage:

1. Store any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pasta to prevent it from drying out.
3. Reheat the pasta gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
4. If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, you can thin it out with a little additional chicken broth or cream.
5. Avoid freezing the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, as pasta tends to become mushy when thawed and reheated.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe? Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, spaghetti, or even whole wheat pasta, depending on your taste and dietary preferences.
2. Can I substitute chicken with another protein? Yes, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different flavor profile or to accommodate dietary restrictions. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.
3. Is there a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream? Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free milk alternative such as almond milk or cashew milk to replace heavy cream in the recipe. Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may vary slightly.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a delicious vegetarian version of this pasta dish. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, such as chicken broth and Parmesan cheese, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a gluten-free version of this tasty dish without compromising on flavor.