Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta 

What You’ll Need:

300g rotini or fusilli pasta

Salt for pasta water

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon plain flour

1 cup whole milk (or use half-and-half for extra creaminess)

½ teaspoon garlic powder

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make It:

Optional Add-Ins & Swaps:

Q1: What ingredients do I need?

A1:

For the pasta:

• 300 g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

• 2 cups broccoli florets

For the chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp paprika

For the creamy sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cooking cream or heavy cream

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Red chili flakes (optional)

Q2: How do I cook the pasta and broccoli?

A2:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.

3. In the last 2 minutes, add broccoli florets to the same pot.

4. Drain and set aside (reserve 1/2 cup pasta water).

Q3: How do I cook the chicken?

A3:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Add chicken pieces, salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

4. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.

Q4: How do I make the creamy sauce?

A4:

1. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Pour in cream and milk, stirring gently.

4. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

5. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Q5: How do I combine everything?

A5:

1. Add cooked pasta and broccoli into the sauce.

2. Return chicken to the pan.

3. Toss everything gently until well coated.

4. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.

Q6: Can I make it healthier?

A6:
Yes!

• Use whole wheat pasta

• Replace cream with low-fat milk + 1 tbsp cornstarch

• Add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach

Q7: How should I serve it?

A7:
Serve hot with:

• Extra Parmesan cheese

• Black pepper or chili flakes

• 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.