Quick Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce: A Whirlwind Recipe

Do you need a quick and delicious pasta recipe that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further! This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce is a perfect meal that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the freshness of broccoli, all in under 40 minutes. Here's how you can make it:

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 pound chicken breast, boneless, skinless, cut into roughly 1-inch pieces 1 teaspoon salt, plus 2 tablespoons for pasta water (kosher salt) 4 tablespoons butter 2-3 garlic cloves, minced 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3 cups whole milk, warmed 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 12 ounces rotelle or rotini pasta, cooked according to package instructions for al dente 12 ounces broccoli, fresh or frozen Crushed red pepper (optional, for serving)

Preparation:

Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Par-cook the broccoli (steam or lightly boil for half the suggested time to keep it crunchy). Cut any large broccoli florets into smaller pieces. In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, arranging them in a single layer without smoking. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned on both sides. Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, continuously stirring. Add the warmed milk, stirring constantly until a smooth sauce forms. Lower the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook the pasta to al dente and reserve about a cup of cooking water. Add Parmesan cheese and black pepper to the sauce, stirring until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add the pasta and broccoli to the sauce, stirring well. Cover and cook for 2-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with reserved pasta water, adding a tablespoon or two at a time. Serve with extra Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

For a quick meal, use already cooked rotelle or rotini pasta, focusing mainly on cooking the chicken and sauce. If you prefer, you can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. To add a touch of heat, use spicy chicken breasts or add red pepper flakes to taste. Use your favorite pasta shape for a change in texture and presentation.

Conclusion:

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce is not only a quick and easy pasta meal but also packed with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it serves as an excellent guilt-free comfort food. So, give it a try and enjoy your homemade, delicious pasta meal!