Description
Chicken with Broccoli and Noodles is the perfect comfort food dish that combines tender, juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a family dinner. The creamy sauce, made with just a few simple ingredients, coats every bite of the chicken and pasta, creating a flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or simply craving a cozy meal, Chicken with Broccoli and Noodles is a dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 8 oz egg noodles (or pasta of choice, like penne or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh basil if available)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing your chicken breasts. If they are large, you may want to slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets that cook faster and more evenly. Season the chicken on both sides with a pinch of salt, pepper, and onion powder.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.
Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, slice it into bite-sized pieces or strips and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your egg noodles (or pasta of choice) and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside. Be sure to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Cook the Broccoli
In the same pan you used for the chicken, add another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Next, add the broccoli florets to the pan. If you’re using fresh broccoli, sauté for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender. If you’re using frozen broccoli, cook for 5-6 minutes until heated through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Once the garlic and broccoli are cooked, add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let the broth reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
Next, add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, and a bit more salt and pepper. Stir to combine, creating a creamy sauce. Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken, Noodles, and Sauce
Add the cooked noodles and sliced chicken to the pan with the creamy sauce and broccoli. Stir gently to combine everything, making sure the noodles and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce. If needed, add more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 38g