🍝 Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta (Mediterranean Style)
A comforting, creamy pasta loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, garlic, and Parmesan. It’s rich but balanced, family-friendly, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
🌿 Ingredients (Serves 4–5)
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300g (10–12 oz) pasta (penne or fettuccine)
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2 large chicken breasts, diced
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2 cups broccoli florets
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream (or half cream + half milk)
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½ cup chicken broth
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¾ cup grated Parmesan
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½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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Optional: pinch red pepper flakes
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Optional: squeeze of lemon juice
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions.
Add broccoli to the pot during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Sauce
In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add chicken broth and simmer 2 minutes.
Pour in cream and cook until slightly thickened (3–4 minutes).
Stir in Parmesan until smooth.
4️⃣ Combine
Return chicken to the skillet.
Add pasta and broccoli. Toss everything together.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for extra creaminess.
5️⃣ Finish
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add red pepper flakes or lemon juice if desired.
🥗 Serving Ideas
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Top with extra Parmesan
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Add fresh parsley
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Serve with a simple Mediterranean cucumber salad
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Pair with roasted vegetables
🧮 Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
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Calories: 520–600
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Protein: 35–40g
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Carbs: 45–55g
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Fat: 22–28g
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make it lighter?
Yes! Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
Q: Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely.
Q: Can I meal prep this?
Yes, store in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
Q: Can I add mushrooms?
Yes — sauté them with the chicken for extra flavor.
