Description
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a comforting, one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rigatoni tossed in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is rich, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite for its perfect blend of creamy texture and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
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12 oz rigatoni or pasta of choice
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 chicken breasts, cubed
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2 cups broccoli florets
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 1/2 cups heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
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Add broccoli and chicken broth. Cover and steam for 3–4 minutes until broccoli is tender.
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Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy.
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Return chicken to the pan, then add cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated.
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Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
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Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
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Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
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Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version (though less creamy).
