Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, a creamy and comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender chicken pieces are cooked to golden perfection, then tossed with pasta and vibrant broccoli florets in a rich, garlicky cheese sauce. This easy dinner idea is packed with protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness, making it a go-to recipe for satisfying cravings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas or comforting food ideas to please the whole family, this dish won’t disappoint.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless) – 2 large, diced into bite-sized pieces
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Salt & Black Pepper – To taste
- Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon
For the Pasta
- Penne Pasta – 12 ounces
- Broccoli Florets – 2 cups, fresh or frozen
For the Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce
- Butter – 3 tablespoons
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream – 1 ½ cups
- Chicken Broth – ½ cup
- Parmesan Cheese – 1 cup, freshly grated
- Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Salt & Black Pepper – To taste
- Red Pepper Flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional)
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh Parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan Cheese, grated
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets. Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Allow to simmer for 3–4 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine Everything:
- Add pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes