Chicken Pasta Skillet
A comforting chicken and broccoli pasta skillet that combines creamy cheese soup with tender broccoli and chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture, making it a family favorite that comes together in just minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 10-inch skillet, combine the broccoli cheese soup, milk, and Dijon mustard.
- Heat over medium heat until boiling.
- Stir in the broccoli.
- Return to boiling.
- Reduce heat to low and cover; cook for 5 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni and drained chicken.
- Heat through, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish with red pepper slices before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamy texture, consider using whole milk or even a splash of cream in place of the milk. If you don't have broccoli cheese soup, a combination of cheddar cheese and cream of broccoli soup can work as a substitute. For added flavor, season with garlic powder or fresh herbs. This dish is versatile; try adding cooked bacon or swapping the chicken for turkey from Aunt Emma'S Chicken And Dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Pasta Skillet with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a pop of freshness, consider adding a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Chowder as a comforting duo. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covering it to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Pasta Skillet contains roughly 1368 calories, with 45g protein, 168g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (90% of the Daily Value), iron (65% of the Daily Value), and calcium (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2683mg per serving (117% 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 fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked chicken. Simply sauté diced chicken breast in the skillet before adding the soup mixture. This will add more flavor and texture to the dish. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to avoid food safety issues.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broccoli cheese soup is also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options that will work perfectly in this recipe without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so all the vegetables are tender and flavorful.
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).