Chicken And Broccoli Pasta
Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta features tender chicken strips, fresh broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce, making it a comforting and versatile meal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and cut chicken breasts into strips.
- Lightly brown chicken strips in 2 tablespoons of oil.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- Meanwhile, bring a 5 to 6-quart pot of salted water to a boil to cook the pasta.
- Cut broccoli into flowerettes and toss into the boiling water when chicken is almost browned to soften.
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
- Drain broccoli and combine with the cooked pasta and chicken.
- Microwave Alfredo sauce for 2 minutes until heated thoroughly.
- Pour the heated Alfredo sauce over the chicken, broccoli, and pasta mixture.
- Serve hot, optionally with a side salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or red pepper flakes while browning the chicken. If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the Alfredo with Greek yogurt. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free bowtie pasta to accommodate dietary needs. To save time, you can opt for pre-cooked chicken or use leftover chicken from another meal, making it a great addition to your collection of chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken And Broccoli Pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of Italian herbs for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a twist, consider serving it alongside Pasta Ala' Daniel for a delightful dinner spread. You can also add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to the dish and microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until heated through. This will help maintain the creamy texture of the Alfredo sauce. Avoid freezing, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Broccoli Pasta contains roughly 144 calories, with 13g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works well, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat options. Each type will offer a different texture and may hold the sauce differently, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also substitute the Alfredo sauce with a creamy cashew sauce or a simple garlic and olive oil mixture for a lighter option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the chicken. You can also top the finished dish with a drizzle of hot sauce or serve it alongside a spicy marinara for dipping, enhancing the flavor profile of this Chicken And Broccoli Pasta.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).