Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Q1: What ingredients do I need?
A1:
For the pasta:
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300 g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
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2 cups broccoli florets
For the chicken:
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2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp paprika
For the creamy sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup cooking cream or heavy cream
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1/2 cup milk
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1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Red chili flakes (optional)
Q2: How do I cook the pasta and broccoli?
A2:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
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In the last 2 minutes, add broccoli florets to the same pot.
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Drain and set aside (reserve 1/2 cup pasta water).
Q3: How do I cook the chicken?
A3:
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Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
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Add chicken pieces, salt, pepper, and paprika.
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Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
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Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
Q4: How do I make the creamy sauce?
A4:
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In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in cream and milk, stirring gently.
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Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Q5: How do I combine everything?
A5:
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Add cooked pasta and broccoli into the sauce.
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Return chicken to the pan.
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Toss everything gently until well coated.
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Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
Q6: Can I make it healthier?
A6:
Yes!
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Use whole wheat pasta
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Replace cream with low-fat milk + 1 tbsp cornstarch
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Add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach
Q7: How should I serve it?
A7:
Serve hot with:
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Extra Parmesan cheese
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Black pepper or chili flakes
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Garlic bread or a fresh green salad
Q8: Can I store leftovers?
A8:
Yes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.
