🧀 Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Pasta:
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300 g pasta (penne, fusilli, or fettuccine)
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2 cups broccoli florets
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Salt for boiling water
For the Chicken:
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400–500 g chicken breast, sliced
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter
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1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 fresh cloves, minced)
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp black pepper
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¾ tsp salt
For the Creamy Sauce:
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1 tbsp butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup cooking cream or heavy cream
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½ cup milk (optional, to lighten)
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½ cup grated parmesan cheese
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
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Salt to taste
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Cook Pasta & Broccoli
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions.
Add broccoli in the last 2–3 minutes of boiling.
Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a pan.
Add chicken, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter.
Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Pour in cream (and milk if using).
Add parmesan, black pepper, nutmeg, and salt.
Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes until thick.
4. Combine Everything
Add pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the sauce.
Toss gently until well coated.
Cook for 1–2 more minutes.
5. Serve
Garnish with extra parmesan and black pepper.
Serve hot and creamy 😍
❓ Q & A
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Thaw and add directly to boiling pasta water.
Q2: Can I make this healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cream, or Greek yogurt.
Q3: Can I add mushrooms or spinach?
Absolutely! Both work great in this dish.
Q4: How long can I store it?
Up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.
Q5: Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Add a little flour or extra cheese to thicken.
Q6: Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes or hot sauce to taste 🌶️