Chicken, Broccoli And Fusilli In Garlic Cream Sauce
A creamy garlic sauce coats tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli with al dente fusilli, creating a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli in a large pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer broccoli to a large bowl.
- Add fusilli to the same pot and cook until just tender but still firm to bite. Drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add chicken breast strips to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in dry white wine and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer.
- Stir in whipping cream and grated Parmesan cheese, cooking until sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add cooked broccoli and drained fusilli to the skillet, tossing to combine and coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the garlic cream sauce, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the whipping cream. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For added freshness, consider serving with a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or steamed asparagus. A glass of dry white wine complements the flavors perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the sauce to separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken, Broccoli And Fusilli In Garlic Cream Sauce contains roughly 590 calories, with 8g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets as a convenient substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the dish. Note that the cooking time for frozen broccoli may be slightly shorter, so adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What can I serve with Chicken, Broccoli And Fusilli?
This dish pairs well with a light green salad or garlic bread. You might also consider serving it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the garlic cream sauce. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, would complement the meal nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately from the pasta and broccoli. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything. This helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.
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).