Description
Super Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Twist features tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and twisty pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that’s indulgent yet quick—comfort food made easy.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta twists (fusilli, rotini, or corkscrew)
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets, bite-friendly pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or fontina (optional, for extra gooeyness)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just before al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sauté until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add broccoli to the skillet with a splash of broth, cover, and steam for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp; remove and set aside.
- Melt remaining butter in the same skillet, sauté garlic briefly, then pour in chicken broth and cream. Simmer gently.
- Whisk in Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Return chicken and broccoli to the sauce, then stir in drained pasta.
- If using, sprinkle in mozzarella and stir until melted and gooey.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
- Substitute broccoli with spinach, peas, or asparagus as desired.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Mix in crispy bacon or pancetta for a smoky crunch.
- Use Greek yogurt or light cream cheese instead of heavy cream for a lighter, tangier version.
- Prepare chicken and broccoli ahead and combine with pasta and sauce just before serving to save time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
