Chicken Cheesy Broccoli with Creamy Pasta

Looking for a creamy and comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition? Chicken Cheesy Broccoli with Creamy Pasta is the perfect option. This dish features tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and creamy pasta smothered in a cheesy sauce. It’s a wholesome meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you full and energized.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and is loved by both kids and adults. Let’s dive into how to make this creamy, cheesy dish!

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Ingredients for Chicken Cheesy Broccoli with Creamy Pasta

For the Chicken:

• 2 Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz Penne or Rotini Pasta (or any pasta you prefer)
• Water (for boiling)
• 1 tsp Salt (for the pasta water)

For the Broccoli:

• 2 cups Fresh Broccoli (cut into florets)
• Water (for steaming)

For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp Butter
• 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1½ cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
• ½ tsp Garlic Powder
• ½ tsp Onion Powder
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped Fresh Parsley
• Grated Parmesan Cheese

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Cheesy Broccoli with Creamy Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Save ½ cup of pasta water for later.

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Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Slice the chicken into strips or cubes once it’s slightly cooled.

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Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and place a steamer basket over it.
2. Add the broccoli florets to the basket and cover.
3. Steam the broccoli for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s tender but still crisp.
4. Remove the broccoli from the steamer and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Once melted, add flour and stir to form a smooth roux. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream.
4. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the sauce and stir until fully melted.
6. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

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Step 5: Combine the Chicken, Broccoli, Pasta, and Cheese Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for cooking the chicken, add the cooked pasta, chicken, and steamed broccoli.
2. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are coated in the creamy sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
2. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy, and creamy pasta dish!

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Tips for the Best Chicken Cheesy Broccoli with Creamy Pasta

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Ensure the pasta is al dente, so it holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts better than pre-shredded cheese, giving you a smoother sauce.
• Add more veggies: Try adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
• Double the sauce: If you prefer extra sauce, simply double the ingredients for the creamy cheese sauce.

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Variations of Chicken Cheesy Broccoli with Creamy Pasta

• Baked Version: After mixing the pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce, top with extra cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Use Different Cheeses: You can swap the cheddar and mozzarella for Parmesan, Gouda, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative to traditional pasta.
• Creamy Pesto Version: Mix some pesto into the cheese sauce for a delicious twist.

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What to Serve with Chicken Cheesy Broccoli with Creamy Pasta

Pair this dish with:

• Garlic Bread for a classic, flavorful side.
• Caesar Salad for a fresh and crisp contrast.
• Steamed Green Beans or roasted carrots for some extra vegetables.
• Sautéed Spinach or roasted Brussels sprouts for more greens.

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How to Store and Reheat Chicken Cheesy Broccoli with Creamy Pasta

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce.

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Conclusion: A Wholesome and Comforting Meal

Chicken Cheesy Broccoli with Creamy Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s an easy recipe that’s great for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. With the combination of tender chicken, broccoli, and creamy pasta, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting, cheesy, and delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!