Garlic Parmesan Broccoli & Chicken (Print Version)

Creamy skillet pasta with tender chicken, broccoli, and garlic Parmesan sauce

# What You'll Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 14 oz), cut into bite-size pieces

→ Pasta

02 - 10 oz penne, rigatoni, or rotini pasta

→ Vegetables

03 - 2 cups small broccoli florets
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 small onion, finely chopped

→ Dairy & Cream

06 - 1 cup heavy cream
07 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 1/2 cup milk

→ Broth & Seasonings

10 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend (optional)

→ Garnish

15 - Fresh parsley, chopped
16 - Additional grated Parmesan (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
02 - In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
03 - Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
04 - Add the pasta and broccoli. Stir well, cover, and cook over medium-low heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. If needed, add a splash more broth or water.
05 - Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper as desired.
07 - Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • One-pan cooking means fewer dishes to clean up after dinner.
  • The combination of heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan creates a restaurant-quality sauce.
  • It is a well-balanced meal featuring protein, vegetables, and pasta.
  • The recipe is easy to follow and ready in just 40 minutes.
02 -
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the smoothest sauce consistency.
  • If the pasta has absorbed all the liquid but isn't quite tender yet, add a small splash of broth or water and continue cooking for another minute.
  • Ensure the chicken and broccoli are cut into uniform, bite-size pieces so they cook through evenly.
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