Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

🍝 Mediterranean Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

🍽️ Serves: 4

⏱️ Total Time: 30–35 minutes

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🌿 Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 10 oz (280 g) whole-grain pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt, for the pasta water

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or lightly steamed)

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth

• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Zest of ½ lemon

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but enhances flavor)

• 1 teaspoon dried basil or thyme

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley or basil

• Extra drizzle of olive oil

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   • Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.

   • In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot to lightly blanch them.

   • Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

   • Add chicken pieces, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.

   • Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Mediterranean Cream Sauce:

   • In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-low heat.

   • Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Pour in the broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and dried basil or thyme.

   • Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.

   • Reduce heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese.

   • Whisk gently until smooth (do not boil, or the yogurt may separate).

   • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.

4. Combine Everything:

   • Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken into the sauce.

   • Toss well to coat evenly.

   • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

   • Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, tangy, and herb-filled Mediterranean flavors.

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🍋 Serving Ideas

• Pair with a side of Greek salad or roasted Mediterranean vegetables.

• Add sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or olives for extra depth.

• Serve with whole-grain bread or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio.

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💡 Tips

• Substitute Greek yogurt with labneh for a richer Mediterranean twist.

• For vegetarian variation: replace chicken with chickpeas or grilled halloumi.

• For extra fiber, use lentil or chickpea pasta.