Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Indulge in this creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, the perfect blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan sauce tossed with penne pasta. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting family dinner. Packed with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Lemon pepper seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 ¼ cups half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 2 ½ cups broccoli florets
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup Asiago cheese (or substitute with more Parmesan)
• ½ lb. penne pasta
• 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Prep Work:

1. Combine the seasoning ingredients and set them aside.
2. Measure out all remaining ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Cut the chicken into ¾-inch pieces and season with lemon pepper seasoning.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add the white wine and set the heat to medium. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce by half, about 4 minutes.
2. Add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly. Follow by adding the half-and-half in small increments, then stir in the hot sauce and seasonings. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce to a simmer, and partially cover the skillet.

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

1. Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, following the package instructions.
2. Add the broccoli to the boiling pasta water during the last 4 minutes of cooking. Drain both together.

Finish the Dish:

1. Reduce the sauce heat to low and slowly stir in the grated Parmesan and Asiago cheeses until melted.
2. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
3. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the sauce. Stir well to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Tips

• Prep First: Measure and prepare all ingredients in advance to make the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
• Even Cooking: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan and Asiago for the best flavor and melting consistency.
• Pasta Water: Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce consistency, if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas.
• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Cheese: Substitute Asiago with Gruyère, Pecorino Romano, or extra Parmesan.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.

FAQs

• Can I make this ahead? Yes! Prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving.
• What can I use instead of white wine? Replace the wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a delightful dining experience.

Enjoy this flavorful and comforting Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for dinner tonight!