Description
A creamy and flavorful Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting meal is perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 250 g pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
Vegetables
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
Dairy and Liquids
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season evenly with onion powder and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Cook the broccoli and garlic: In the same pan, add butter and let it melt. Add minced garlic and broccoli florets, then sauté for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and broccoli is slightly tender but still crisp.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Add the cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing them to melt completely into the sauce to create a smooth, cheesy texture.
- Combine: Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the pan. Toss all ingredients together thoroughly to ensure the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta warm and enjoy this delicious, cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli meal immediately.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the broccoli to maintain its crunch and nutrition.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté step.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
