Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce for a comforting meal that’s perfect any night of the week. It’s a simple, satisfying dish packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook pasta according to package directions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and garlic, stirring to coat evenly. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the salt, black pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything evenly in the cheese sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a creamier sauce, use half-and-half or add a splash of heavy cream instead of all milk.
• Swap out the broccoli for other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or peas depending on your preference.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken for a quicker meal.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Add it to the pasta water during the last few minutes of cooking just as you would fresh broccoli, making sure not to overcook it.

What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have cheddar or Parmesan?

You can use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or a combination of cheeses you have on hand. Just choose a cheese that melts well to keep the sauce creamy.

Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 70 reviews

• Author: lina
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A creamy, comforting Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Vegetables

• 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
• 4 cups broccoli florets

Chicken and Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package directions. Add the broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 2 minutes of cooking to soften them. Drain both pasta and broccoli and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked chicken and garlic, stirring to coat. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth to avoid lumps. Simmer the mixture until it thickens into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper, then stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
4. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli in the skillet with the cheese sauce, heating everything through and ensuring the sauce evenly coats the pasta and vegetables.

Notes

• Use full-fat milk for a creamier sauce, or substitute with a lower-fat milk to reduce calories.
• To add extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning with the garlic.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• For gluten-free option, substitute pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the sauce.
• Make sure to stir the sauce continuously while adding milk and broth to avoid lumps.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheesy chicken pasta, garlic chicken pasta, broccoli pasta recipe, creamy chicken pasta, quick dinner recipe