Imagine a mouthwatering meal that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta - all prepared in a single skillet with minimal cleanup. This Skillet Chicken Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that will have your family begging for seconds! Whether you're a busy professional, a parent looking for quick meals, or simply someone who loves delicious comfort food, this recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by dicing chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, cutting broccoli into small florets, and measuring out all other ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become bright green and slightly tender.
- Add uncooked pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, allowing pasta to simmer and absorb liquid for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is almost tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, return cooked chicken to the skillet and mix thoroughly.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top and stir until cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- Remove from heat, let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken, then serve hot.
Tips
- Ensure even chicken cooking by cutting the breasts into uniform, bite-sized cubes. This helps the meat cook quickly and evenly.
- Use fresh broccoli for the brightest color and crispest texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain completely before adding to the skillet.
- Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like rotini, penne, or fusilli. These shapes help capture the cheesy goodness.
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian seasoning when cooking the chicken.
- Don't overcook the pasta - it will continue to absorb liquid after removing from heat. Aim for al dente texture.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- If the skillet seems dry while cooking, add a little extra chicken broth to prevent sticking and ensure creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
