Description
This One Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a simple, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and fresh broccoli are cooked directly with fusilli pasta in a creamy half-and-half and chicken broth sauce, resulting in a flavorful dish with minimal cleanup. The garlic and Italian seasoning add wonderful aroma and taste, while optional red pepper flakes bring a slight kick. Serve with freshly grated parmesan for a delicious finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-size strips/pieces)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (cut small)
Liquids and Dairy
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
Carbohydrates
- 3 cups uncooked fusilli pasta
Seasonings and Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (for serving, optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken strips and olive oil to a Dutch oven or large soup pot. Stir well and sauté over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on the outside.
- Add Flavor and Liquids: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half followed by the uncooked fusilli pasta. Increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Pasta: Reduce heat to medium or medium-low (depending on how vigorously it’s boiling) and simmer uncovered for 8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Lower heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green. If broccoli is too crisp after this, cook an additional 2 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Season the pasta dish with salt and pepper to your preference. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor.
Notes
- For creamier pasta, you can use heavy cream instead of half-and-half.
- Substitute broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or asparagus if preferred.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to desired spice level or omit for no heat.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during simmering to avoid pasta sticking and burning.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor rather than pre-grated powder.
