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Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta : A Healthy Dinner

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When you’re craving something comforting, delicious, and family-friendly, this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect answer.

Ingredients

Scale

For the pasta and main ingredients:

    • 8 oz (about 2½ cups) penne or rotini pasta

    • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

    • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil

    • 1 tablespoon butter

    • Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce:

    • 3 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

    • 1½ cups milk (whole or 2%)

    • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

    • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

    • ½ teaspoon onion powder

    • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

    • Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds. Sprinkle in flour and whisk for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and chicken broth. Add onion powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the pan. Toss to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 5: Taste and Serve
Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot with extra cheese or a sprinkle of parsley if desired.

Notes

    • Use fresh broccoli for best texture, but frozen works in a pinch

    • Cut chicken into even pieces so it cooks evenly

    • Add broccoli in the last few minutes of boiling pasta to keep it green and crisp-tender

    • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce

Nutrition

Keywords: Healthy Easy Dinner Recipes For Family

Find it online: https://lyndyskitchen.com/chicken-and-broccoli-pasta/