Introduction
Savory Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a comforting and wholesome dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. This dish features tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and pasta, all coated in a rich and creamy sauce made from garlic, cream, and Parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies the craving for something indulgent but also packs in nutritious vegetables, making it a great choice for balancing flavor and health. The combination of garlic, creamy sauce, and sautéed chicken creates a delightful blend of savory flavors, while the broccoli adds a healthy, crunchy contrast. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
The History of Savory Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Chicken and broccoli have long been a popular pairing in various cuisines, with the combination representing a healthy balance of protein and vegetables. The addition of creamy pasta sauce, however, has gained particular prominence in Western and Italian-inspired cooking. The dish likely draws influence from classic Italian pasta recipes, where rich, creamy sauces are paired with meats and vegetables to create balanced and flavorful dishes. Over time, this simple but satisfying combination evolved into a staple in many American homes, offering an easy and versatile weeknight meal. The creamy sauce, which often includes elements like cream, butter, garlic, and cheese, brings an indulgent richness to the meal, while the broccoli and chicken contribute both texture and nutritional value. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, this dish has become a household favorite, with many different versions popping up across various cultures.
Ingredients Breakdown
The key ingredients in this Savory Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta are simple yet flavorful. The chicken breast serves as the main protein, providing lean meat that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Broccoli is used as the vegetable component, providing a nice crunch and a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The pasta is typically a long noodle like fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti, but any pasta will work well. The sauce consists of heavy cream, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of chicken broth to help achieve the right balance of creaminess and flavor. The garlic infuses the sauce with a rich aromatic quality, while the Parmesan adds saltiness and depth. Seasoning with salt, pepper, and sometimes red pepper flakes or herbs like thyme or basil can further elevate the taste. This dish also benefits from a touch of olive oil to sauté the chicken and garlic, bringing everything together into a silky, smooth sauce.
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later. - Sauté the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Once it’s slightly cooled, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. - Prepare the Broccoli:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the broccoli for about 4-5 minutes, until it’s slightly tender but still vibrant and crunchy. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside with the chicken. - Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. - Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Broccoli:
Add the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and broccoli to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick, until everything is well coated in the creamy mixture. - Serve:
Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve the creamy chicken and broccoli pasta in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy immediately!
Tips for the Perfect Savory Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
To ensure the perfect creamy sauce, use full-fat heavy cream, as it will thicken more effectively and provide a rich texture. If you want to add a little extra flavor, you can sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Make sure not to overcook the broccoli, as you want it to remain slightly crunchy for texture. For added creaminess, you can also mix in a little cream cheese or mascarpone. If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. For a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative like half-and-half or a non-dairy milk, though the texture may differ slightly. The dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently over low heat and add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.
Variations and Customizations
While this recipe is delicious as it is, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. To make it more filling, add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to the mix. If you’re craving a little heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to add a spicy kick. For a different protein, try substituting the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also change up the cheese in the sauce to suit your taste; for instance, adding some mozzarella for a gooey texture or using goat cheese for a tangy twist. If you want a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free pasta. If you prefer a more indulgent version, top the dish with extra cheese and broil it for a few minutes to get a crispy, golden top.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Savory Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a balanced dish that provides lean protein from the chicken and a healthy serving of vegetables from the broccoli. The creamy sauce, while delicious, is rich, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation if you’re watching your calorie intake. To make the dish a little lighter, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream and use low-fat alternatives or swap out some of the cream for more chicken broth. Broccoli adds a significant amount of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this a nutrient-packed dish. For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can opt for a cauliflower or zucchini noodle substitute to reduce the carbohydrate content.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy chicken and broccoli pasta a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little pasta water to restore the creamy texture. - Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it and pat it dry before adding it to the skillet to avoid excess moisture in the sauce. - Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, turkey, or even grilled salmon. For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based protein or extra vegetables like mushrooms or tofu. - How do I make this dish spicier?
To add spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even a finely chopped jalapeño during the cooking process. You can also top the dish with some spicy pepper jack cheese.
Savory Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast
- Lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup dry white wine see notes
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- 1 ¼ cups half and half
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 2 ½ cups broccoli florets
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup Asiago cheese or use all Parmesan
- ½ lb. penne pasta
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Prep Work: Combine the seasoning ingredients and set aside. It’s also a good idea to measure out the remaining ingredients beforehand, making the recipe easier to follow!
- Cut the chicken into ¾-inch pieces and season with the Lemon Pepper Seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until a brown crust forms. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- While preparing the sauce, bring a large pot of salted pasta water to a boil.
- In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add the white wine and set the heat to medium. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce by half, about 4 minutes.
- Add the butter and garlic, cooking for 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the chicken broth in small splashes, stirring continuously. Do the same with the half and half, then add the hot sauce and seasonings. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and partially cover.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta to al dente according to the package instructions. During the last 4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli to the pasta water, then drain.
- Lower the heat of the sauce to low and slowly stir in the grated cheese.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken, then toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Grate the cheese from a wedge instead of using pre-grated cheese, as it will melt more smoothly and taste much better. I recommend using Belgioioso Parmesan and Asiago cheese. Ensure the sauce isn’t too hot when adding the cheese, as high heat can cause the dairy to separate, resulting in a grainy texture. White Wine: Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio work best in this recipe and complement the lemon flavor. You can substitute chicken broth if you prefer not to cook with wine. The hot sauce is meant to subtly enhance the flavor without making the dish spicy. I use Frank’s Hot Sauce. Similarly, the mustard powder enhances the flavor without being overtly noticeable. You can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. Since it’s already blanched, just cook it for 3 minutes instead of 4.
