Ziti With Chicken And Broccoli
A hearty Italian-inspired dish combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and ziti in a creamy tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts on a flat surface. Using a sharp knife, cut the breasts in half, then lengthwise into thin strips about 1/2-inch thick.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the chicken strips, season with salt and freshly ground pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Meanwhile, steam or blanch the broccoli until tender, about 3-4 minutes, then drain.
- Add the peeled and diced tomatoes to the skillet with the chicken, along with chopped fresh rosemary and oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and flavors to meld.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, simmering for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked ziti and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. Substitute the broccoli with spinach or kale for a different green option. If you prefer a lighter dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Adding some grated parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor profile. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Broiled Tomatoes (Low-Fat).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ziti dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes such as Spaghetti-Meatballs or a light tiramisu for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ziti With Chicken And Broccoli contains roughly 244 calories, with 6g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (106% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), and calcium (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1800mg per serving (78% 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, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish. Cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, as frozen broccoli is often more tender than fresh.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you need a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream or cashew cream can work well, but they will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This ziti with chicken and broccoli is perfect for meal prep. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and divide it into individual portions. It reheats well, making it a convenient option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
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).