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To create the magic in Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet Pasta, it's essential to understand the role and benefits of each ingredient in the dish.

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet Pasta

Looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner? Try Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet Pasta! This nourishing dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente penne pasta, all wrapped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a hit with the whole family. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, this meal balances comfort food with gourmet flair. Discover how to elevate your weeknight meals!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) penne pasta

2 cups broccoli florets

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Set a large pot of salted water to boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. For the final 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander, and then set them aside while you prepare the sauce.

    Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with a sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate, allowing it to rest.

      Make the Sauce: In the same skillet where the chicken was cooked, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds, or until fragrant but not browned. Carefully pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth. If you prefer a little spice, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point.

        Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta back to the skillet along with the broccoli. Gently toss all the ingredients together to ensure they are well-coated in the creamy sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld.

          Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed. To serve, plate the pasta and sauce, garnishing each dish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.

            Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

              - Presentation Tips: For added flair, serve the pasta in large, shallow bowls and shower each dish with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-quality finish. Alternatively, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can enhance both flavor and texture!