Broccoli Chicken Pasta Swirls: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe for Dinner

Broccoli Chicken Pasta Swirls are not just a meal; they are a delightful experience that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all swirled together in a creamy sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Originating from the heart of Italian-American cuisine, this recipe has become a beloved staple in many households, celebrated for its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

What I love most about Broccoli Chicken Pasta Swirls is how they effortlessly blend nutrition and indulgence. The crunchy broccoli adds a fresh bite, while the chicken provides a hearty protein boost, making it a well-rounded dish that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, Broccoli Chicken Pasta Swirls are sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225 g) of rotini pasta
• 2 cups of broccoli florets
• 1 lb (450 g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is where we’ll cook our pasta and broccoli.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
3. About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This will blanch the broccoli, keeping it vibrant and tender-crisp.
4. Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest. Set the pasta and broccoli aside in a large bowl.

Cooking the Chicken

1. While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, let’s prepare the chicken. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and quickly.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet.
3. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into a piece; it should be no longer pink in the center.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

Making the Cream Sauce

1. Now it’s time to create our creamy sauce! Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine with the chicken and garlic.
2. Let the cream simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
3. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Combining Everything

1. Now that our sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce.
2. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and broccoli are well coated with the sauce. This is where the magic happens, and you’ll see those beautiful swirls of pasta and vibrant green broccoli.
3. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit more of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.

Serving the Dish

1. Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from the heat. It’s time to plate up!
2. Serve the Broccoli Chicken Pasta Swirls in bowls or on plates. I love to garnish mine with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
3. For an extra touch, you can add more grated Parmesan cheese on top. Who doesn’t love more cheese?
4. Enjoy your delicious, creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Swirls with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Tips and Variations

• If you want to add more veggies,

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the Broccoli Chicken Pasta Swirls recipe, I can confidently say that this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta swirled together in a creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but it also packs a nutritional punch, making it a great choice for families and health-conscious individuals alike. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Broccoli Chicken Pasta Swirls with a light side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made your own Broccoli Chicken Pasta Swirls, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking!

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