Description

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe is a perfect balance of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente pasta, all tossed in a light, flavorful sauce. It’s a versatile dish that’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you prefer a creamy sauce or a lighter, olive oil-based version, this dish offers flexibility and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

8 ounces penne pasta
2 cups broccoli, cut into small florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 chicken breasts, cooked and cut into small cubes

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 5 minutes of cooking add the broccoli florets in the boiling water with the pasta.
Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring until smooth.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and diced chicken breasts to the pot with the parmesan sauce.
Stir until everything is well coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Transfer the Chicken Broccoli Pasta Salad to a serving bowl.
Garnish with additional grated parmesan cheese, if desired.
Season to taste and serve hot

Notes

For best results, use fresh broccoli for a crisp texture and opt for a pasta shape that holds the sauce well, such as penne or fusilli. If you’re looking to add more flavor without increasing calories, consider incorporating fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. This dish is also excellent for meal prep, holding up well in the refrigerator for several days.