Mediterranean Chicken & Broccoli Pasta (Quick & Nourishing)

🍝 Mediterranean Chicken & Broccoli Pasta (Quick & Nourishing)

🌿 Description

This Mediterranean Chicken & Broccoli Pasta is a light yet satisfying dish made with tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and al dente pasta tossed in a lemony garlic olive oil sauce. Finished with Parmesan and optional feta, it’s full of clean flavors, protein, and veggies—perfect for busy nights when you still want something nourishing and comforting.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or whole-wheat pasta)

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For finishing:

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup crumbled feta (optional, Mediterranean touch)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta & broccoli
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
   Add broccoli during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.

2. Cook the chicken
   Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
   Cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the sauce
   In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and garlic. Sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
   Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of reserved pasta water.

4. Combine
   Add pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet. Toss until coated and glossy.
   Stir in Parmesan and adjust seasoning.

5. Serve
   Top with feta (if using), fresh herbs, and extra black pepper.

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⭐ Tips & Variations

• Use whole-wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber

• Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for deeper Mediterranean flavor

• Swap chicken for shrimp or chickpeas

• For creamy version: stir in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt off heat

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❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of water when reheating.

Q: Is this dish healthy?
A: Definitely. It’s balanced with lean protein, vegetables, olive oil, and fresh herbs—Mediterranean staples.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes. Add it directly to boiling pasta water and cook until just tender.

Q: What can I serve with it?
A: A simple cucumber-tomato salad, olives, or warm crusty bread.