Name: Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients: 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

Description

This chicken and broccoli pasta dish is a flavorful combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a creamy garlic butter sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Customization: Feel free to substitute ingredients to match your dietary preferences, such as using gluten-free pasta or adding different vegetables.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to maintain the dish’s moisture and flavor.