Chinese Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Introduction
Looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner recipe? Look no further than this delicious chicken and broccoli pasta! Packed with flavor, protein, and vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients and step-by-step directions to create this mouthwatering meal. So let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make chicken and broccoli pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 ounces of pasta (your choice of shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your chicken and broccoli pasta:
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
Next, add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Finally, add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce and the chicken and broccoli are evenly distributed.
Serve hot and garnish with some extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer or have on hand. Some popular options include penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta.
Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
A: Yes, if you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. The sauce may not be as rich, but it will still be delicious.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Of course! This recipe serves as a base, and you can easily customize it by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will create a tasty vegetarian version of the dish.
Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?
A: From start to finish, this recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!
With this chicken and broccoli pasta recipe, you’ll have a satisfying and flavorful meal on the table in no time. It’s a versatile dish that allows for customization, making it a favorite among home cooks. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious dinner tonight!
