Description
Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta brings comfort and flavor together in one delightful dish. Home cooks can savor this simple yet satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
Vegetables and Pasta:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 ounces (454 grams) pipe rigate pasta
- 3 ounces (85 grams) sun-dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Boil pasta in a large pot according to package guidelines, adding broccoli during the final three minutes of cooking. Drain and return to the pan, then incorporate chopped dried tomatoes.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat (around 350°F).
- Introduce chicken, onions, seasonings, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Cook until chicken is fully done and onions become translucent, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Dust flour over the chicken mixture, stirring continuously to prevent clumping, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour milk and chicken broth into the skillet, whisking to create a smooth consistency. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat once the sauce thickens and becomes velvety. Fold in cheese until completely melted and integrated.
- Transfer the creamy sauce to the pasta and broccoli, gently folding to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Plate immediately while hot, garnishing with optional fresh herbs. Complement the dish with a crisp side salad or toasted garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Choose pasta shapes with ridges or curves to help sauce cling better, like rotini or penne.
- Quickly blanch broccoli first to maintain vibrant green color and crisp texture before adding to pasta.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure perfect golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming instead of searing.
- Replace whole milk with low-fat or dairy-free alternatives for lighter version without compromising creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 466 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg