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In the culinary world, few dishes bring comfort and satisfaction quite like a creamy pasta dish. This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet is not just a feast for the eyes; it also combines wholesome ingredients that offer nutrients and flavors. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal cleanup while delivering maximum taste. In this article, we will guide you through the recipe, exploring its components, the cooking process, and why it’s an excellent choice for your dinner table.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet

Discover the perfect weeknight dish with this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet! This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and penne pasta in a rich, creamy sauce that’s both comforting and nutritious. With easy-to-follow steps and minimal cleanup, it’s the ideal solution for busy evenings. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this delicious recipe is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz penne pasta

1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a spacious skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through and develops a beautiful golden-brown color. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Prepare the Broccoli: In the same skillet, toss in the broccoli florets. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is a vibrant green yet retains its crispness. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the garlic to become fragrant.

        Make the Sauce: With the broccoli and garlic still in the skillet, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if desired). Stir everything together well, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

          Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained penne pasta and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are all well incorporated. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until achieving your preferred creamy consistency. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

            Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese as needed. To finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley right before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the creamy pasta in warm bowls, drizzling a little extra sauce over the top, and finish with a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano and a sprig of parsley for an elegant touch. Enjoy!