Rigatoni, Broccoli And Chicken
A creamy and flavorful rigatoni dish featuring tender chicken and broccoli, infused with garlic and lemon, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner for 1 to 2 people.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken strips and cook until browned.
- Add broccoli florets and lemon juice; cook and stir for 1 minute.
- Add crushed garlic and cook for 10 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; cook until mixture boils.
- Remove from heat.
- Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce and cook until the sauce is reduced by half.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken strips in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter. To increase the veggie content, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. This dish is versatile and pairs well with Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Italian Chicken Soup (Low Fat - Low Calorie) for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce's consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rigatoni, Broccoli And Chicken contains roughly 2724 calories, with 15g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 280g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 797mg per serving (35% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What can I substitute for rigatoni?
If you don't have rigatoni, penne or ziti make excellent substitutes due to their similar shapes and ability to hold sauce well. You can also try gluten-free pasta if needed.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and mix in the cooked rigatoni. Freshly cooked pasta will yield the best texture.
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).