Sometimes, the best meals come from simple ingredients and a dash of creativity. That’s exactly how this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta came to life in my kitchen on a particularly busy evening. As I glanced at my pantry and fridge, I realized I had these classic staples on hand and needed to whip up something delicious yet quick.
The vibrant green broccoli florets and tender chicken pieces were just calling out to be paired with pasta, and the hint of garlic was a promise of flavor that no one could resist. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this dish transformed my mundane weeknight into a flavorful event, leaving us fully satisfied and craving more.
Whether you're a busy professional, a parent juggling schedules, or someone simply tired of fast food fare, this recipe is here to rescue your dinner plans. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines protein, fresh veggies, and your favorite pasta—all drizzled with a savory soy sauce that brings it all together. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to become a new staple in your home!
Why You'll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
- This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is exceptionally easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- You'll love the burst of flavor from the garlic and soy sauce that elevates simple ingredients into a delicious dish.
- Its versatility allows you to swap in your favorite pasta or vegetables, ensuring it's never the same dish twice.
- Visually, the bright green broccoli and golden chicken create a stunning plate that is as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – a lean protein choice that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully.
For the Pasta
• Pasta of your choice – any shape works well; just remember to cook it al dente!
For the Vegetables
• Fresh garlic – enhances the dish with aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken and broccoli.
• Fresh broccoli florets – adds vibrant color and a nutritious crunch to this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta.
For the Sauce
• Extra virgin olive oil – brings richness and helps with sautéing the chicken to perfection.
• Low-sodium soy sauce – adds a savory depth without overwhelming saltiness; feel free to use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Reserved pasta water – the starchy water helps create a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
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Prepare Ingredients: Begin by chopping the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, mincing the garlic, and cutting the broccoli into florets. Having everything ready makes cooking a breeze!
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Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add your favorite pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining it to use later!
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Sauté Chicken: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook them until they’re golden brown and cooked through, taking about 7-10 minutes.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic and broccoli florets into the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the garlic is fragrant—this will bring a wonderful aroma to your kitchen!
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Incorporate Sauce: Pour in the low-sodium soy sauce along with half a cup of reserved pasta water. Give it a gentle stir to combine all those delicious flavors.
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Combine Everything: Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat it with the sauce. The pasta should be glistening, coated evenly with that incredible sauce!
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for a delightful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Variations
Feel free to explore these tempting variations—your dinner can be as unique as you are!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute olive oil with coconut oil and skip any cheese for a smooth, rich flavor without dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or chickpeas; it’s a delicious twist that keeps the texture just right.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha when sautéing the chicken for a fiery warmth that livens up each bite.
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Veggie Boost: Stir in bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach along with the broccoli for added color and nutrition—each bite is a garden of flavor!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end for a refreshing aroma; a little green adds vibrancy and flair!
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Protein-Packed: Swap chicken for shrimp or add extra tofu cubes; both options offer delightful texture and flavor alongside the broccoli.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted sesame seeds or slivered almonds for a gratifying crunch that elevates both flavor and presentation.
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Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle grated parmesan or nutritional yeast right before serving; it melts beautifully and adds a savory depth that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken and Broccoli Pasta bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the chicken, mince the garlic, and cut the broccoli up to 24 hours in advance for a quick start to your cooking process. Simply store the prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the pasta and toss it with a bit of olive oil before refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, sauté the chicken and veggies, add the soy sauce, and stir in the cooked pasta along with reserved pasta water. You’ll have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy just as delicious as when made fresh!
What to Serve with Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?
Creating a complete meal is a delightful way to elevate the dining experience around this comforting dish.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, crunchy side that’s perfect for soaking up the flavors of your sauce; a classic pairing every family will adore.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine drizzled with creamy dressing adds freshness and a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the pasta.
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Steamed Green Beans: Their tender-crisp texture complements the chicken and broccoli, while the vibrant color brightens the plate.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots bring a delightful earthiness that wonderfully offsets the savory notes of the pasta.
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Lemon Water: Bright and refreshing, this drink not only cleanses the palate but also enhances the dish’s flavors.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this smooth, indulgent treat provides a luscious ending to a perfectly balanced meal, leaving everyone satisfied.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
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Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
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Freezer: Freeze your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in sealed freezer bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick meal.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a touch of reserved pasta water to revive the sauce's texture.
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Serving Suggestions: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or crushed red pepper flakes when reheating for an extra flavor boost.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, ensure your chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Avoid adding too much soy sauce at once; you can always add more to taste after combining with the pasta.
- Stirring the pasta into the sauce rather than the other way around will help the pasta absorb the flavors better.
- Lastly, keep an eye on the broccoli to maintain its crunch; it should be cooked just until tender but still vibrant.
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting broccoli?
Absolutely! When choosing broccoli for your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, look for vibrant green florets without any dark spots or yellowing. The stalks should be firm and hold a bit of moisture. Fresh broccoli not only tastes better, but it also keeps its crunchiness, which adds that delightful texture to your dish.
How should I store leftovers of Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?
You can store any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing it up. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist and flavorful!
Can I freeze Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for up to 2 months. Just make sure to place it in sealed freezer bags or airtight containers. For best results, let the pasta cool completely before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to revive the sauce!
What if my chicken is overcooked?
No worries! If you find that your chicken has become a bit dry, you can add a splash of low-sodium soy sauce or some reserved pasta water when reheating. This will help to rehydrate the chicken and make your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta more enjoyable! Also, be sure to keep an eye on your chicken while cooking; it should be cooked through but still tender—about 7-10 minutes should do the trick.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very! This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta can easily be adjusted for dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce. If you're preparing it for pets, be cautious with ingredients, particularly the garlic, as it can be harmful to dogs. Always consult with your veterinarian for the best safety practices!
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and cut the broccoli into florets.
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Incorporate Sauce: Pour in soy sauce and half a cup of reserved pasta water. Stir gently to combine flavors.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with sauce.
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