Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta shells. This dish not only promises comfort but also simplicity, prepared all in one pot for ease of cooking and cleanup. It’s a versatile recipe that suits busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied with its hearty and delicious appeal.
Ingredients
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- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch (2 cm) pieces
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- ½ cup diced yellow onion (about half an onion, 75 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 2 cups chicken broth (480 mL)
- 3 cups water (720 mL)
- 16 oz pasta shells (455 g)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 kg), or one head of broccoli
- ½ teaspoon cayenne powder
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup milk (240 mL)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (200 g)
Preparation
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add chicken breast pieces, season with salt and pepper, and brown on one side.
- Flip chicken pieces, then add diced onions and minced garlic as the second side browns.
- Once chicken is browned on both sides, add chicken broth, water, and pasta to the pot.
- Stir all ingredients, cover the pot with a lid, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, uncover and stir. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, uncover and add broccoli florets. Stir continuously as the broccoli steams and the remaining liquid evaporates.
- Add milk and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and forms a smooth sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper (to taste), cayenne powder, and nutmeg. Stir well.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients. The creamy cheddar cheese sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and nutritious broccoli, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or served for a gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to please with its robust flavors and straightforward preparation. Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of this one-pot wonder, and watch it become a favorite in your home.