Oh boy, let me tell you about my cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta! This dish is one of my absolute favorites because it combines creamy goodness with the flavors of garlic and tender chicken, all wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta. Whenever I make this for dinner, the whole house fills with that irresistible aroma of sautéed garlic, and I can’t help but feel like a culinary genius! The fresh broccoli adds a pop of color and a crunch that balances out the rich creaminess. It’s such a comforting meal that I often whip it up on busy weeknights or when I want something cozy on a chilly evening. Trust me, once you try this cheesy, garlicky delight, you’ll be hooked just like I am!
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz pasta (I love using penne or fusilli for this dish!)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh is best for that vibrant crunch!)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced (make sure to cut them into even pieces)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier, right?)
- 1 cup heavy cream (this is where the magic happens!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I can’t resist extra cheese!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for that golden-brown chicken)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this—it really brings everything together!)
How to Prepare Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Alright, let’s dive into the heart of making this cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta! The first thing you’ll want to do is cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and toss in 8 oz of your favorite pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a splash of that pasta water—it can come in handy later!
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add in 1 lb of diced chicken breast. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You’ll want to make sure there’s no pink left inside! Then, toss in 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another minute. The smell will be absolutely heavenly!
Next, add in 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes, just until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir it occasionally, and watch it transform into a luscious sauce! Once it’s simmering, mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into that creamy goodness.
Finally, add your cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure each noodle is coated in that cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve it up hot. You’re going to love how all the flavors come together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—dinner on the table in just 35 minutes!
- Deliciously creamy with the perfect balance of garlic flavor.
- Family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- Packed with protein and veggies, making it a wholesome meal.
- One-pot wonder—minimal cleanup required!
- Customizable with your favorite pasta or veggies for endless variety.
- Comfort food at its finest—perfect for cozy nights in.
Tips for Success with Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Now that you’re ready to whip up this cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out just perfect!
- Perfect Pasta: When cooking the pasta, be sure to salt the water generously. It should taste like the ocean! This infuses the pasta with flavor right from the start.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken as it cooks. You want it golden brown and cooked through but not dry. Use a meat thermometer if you have one—165°F (74°C) is your magic number!
- Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic makes a huge difference in flavor. If you’ve got the time, let the garlic cook until it’s just golden to really bring out those sweet, aromatic notes.
- Broccoli Crunch: When sautéing the broccoli, aim for that tender-crisp texture. You want it vibrant and bright green, not mushy—about 3-4 minutes is usually just right!
- Pasta Water Power: If your sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. It helps to loosen it up and adds a touch of starch that makes the sauce stick beautifully to the pasta.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic, don’t be afraid to mix it up! A blend of mozzarella and parmesan can create a deliciously gooey texture and rich flavor.
- Seasoning Love: Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Sometimes a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes can elevate the dish even further!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta that’s not only delicious but also feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Enjoy cooking!
Variations of Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
If you’re anything like me, you love to play around with recipes and make them your own! This cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta is so versatile, and I can’t wait to share some fun variations you can try. Trust me, each twist can make it feel like a whole new dish!
- Alternative Proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist. You could even use diced turkey or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option!
- Different Pasta Types: While I adore penne or fusilli, feel free to experiment! Try using whole wheat pasta for a nuttier flavor, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb version.
- Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding more veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or carrots can be tossed in with the broccoli for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Cheesy Variations: If you’re a cheese lover like me, mix it up by adding a blend of mozzarella and gouda for a different cheesy experience. Or sprinkle some feta on top before serving for a tangy kick!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten the dish. Just toss them in at the end for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the chicken while cooking. It’ll take your pasta to a whole new level!
With these variations, you’ll never get bored with cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta! Mix and match to find your perfect combination, and have fun in the kitchen!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta, nutrition can vary quite a bit depending on the ingredients and brands you choose. So, while I can’t give you precise numbers, I can share some estimated nutritional values based on a standard serving. This dish typically offers around:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
Remember, these numbers can change based on your choices—like whether you opt for whole wheat pasta or add more veggies. If you’re keeping an eye on your nutrition, feel free to adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs. Happy cooking and munching!
FAQ About Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Got questions about my cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up while you’re whipping up this delicious dish:
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet. Frozen broccoli is convenient and still offers great flavor, though fresh does give that lovely crunch!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. For a lighter option, you could also use a mixture of milk and a bit of cornstarch to thicken it up.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free cream alternatives, like coconut cream or cashew cream, and swap the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese. There are some great options available now that melt beautifully!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and broccoli mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it gently, add the cooked pasta, and stir in the cheese and cream. Easy peasy!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra cream to keep it creamy!
What pasta works best for this recipe?
I love using penne or fusilli because they hold onto the cheesy sauce so well. But feel free to use any pasta you have on hand—spaghetti, shells, or even gluten-free pasta will work wonderfully!
Can I add more veggies to this dish?
Definitely! This recipe is super flexible. Throw in some bell peppers, spinach, or even peas for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for any veggies you choose!
If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help you create the best cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta experience possible!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve whipped up a delicious batch of cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No problem! This dish stores beautifully and can be just as delightful the next day!
To store your leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation and keep it from getting soggy. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it well—nobody wants that fridge smell sneaking in!
When you’re ready to enjoy your cheesy pasta again, reheating is simple! You can do this on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you’re using the stovetop, add a splash of water or a bit more cream to the skillet to help loosen up the sauce as it warms. Heat it gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through and creamy again—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick.
If you prefer using the microwave, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plate (this helps trap steam). Heat it in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval, until it’s hot and ready to devour!
And there you have it! Enjoy your cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta just as much the next day as you did fresh from the stovetop. Happy eating!
What to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Now that you’ve got your cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta all ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to create the ultimate meal experience! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your dinner from delicious to downright spectacular.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread! The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the pasta perfectly and is ideal for soaking up that creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a nice crunch and a bit of tanginess to balance out the richness of the pasta. Just toss some romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a classic touch.
- Steamed Green Beans: For a light and healthy side, steamed green beans are a fantastic choice. They’re easy to prepare and add a pop of color to your plate while keeping things fresh and vibrant!
- Caprese Salad: If you’re craving something refreshing, a Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze is perfect. It’s light, flavorful, and a great contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Consider roasting a medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. Drizzle them with olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs for a tasty, colorful side that brings more veggies to your meal!
- Simple Side Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing crunch. It’s a great way to add some extra nutrients without overwhelming the palate.
With these delightful side options, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy your cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta with your favorite sides, and savor every delicious bite!
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Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: 7 Comforting Flavors
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a cheesy garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute chicken with shrimp for a different protein.
- Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta