CREAMY CHICKEN WITH PASTA AND BROCCOLI

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When it comes to comfort food that satisfies both your taste buds and your need for something hearty, nothing quite compares to a creamy chicken pasta dish with broccoli. This delightful recipe brings together the richness of a creamy sauce with the wholesome goodness of broccoli and succulent chicken, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a meal that promises comfort in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken pasta with broccoli is the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. You’ll love it because it’s:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the broccoli.
• Customizable: Feel free to add more veggies or swap the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
• Mixing bowl for preparing the sauce
• Whisk
• Strainer for pasta and broccoli

Ingredients

• 1-pound uncooked spaghetti
• 1-pound broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon margarine
• 1-pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves – cut into strips
• ½ cup chopped onions
• 1 (10.75 ounces) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• ⅔ cup milk
• ⅔ cup of water
• 1 (3 ounces) package cream cheese, cubed and softened
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place a large pot on the stove and fill it with salted water. Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook for about 4 minutes, then add the sliced broccoli.
3. Continue cooking for another 4 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Drain and rinse under running water to stop the cooking process.
4. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the margarine.
5. Add the chicken strips and chopped onions to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink and the onions are translucent.
6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, water, condensed soup, and softened cream cheese until smooth.
7. Pour the mixture into the skillet, let it come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
8. Combine the pasta, broccoli, and creamy chicken sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
9. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips for Success

• For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts as they are juicier.
• Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the sauce.
• Slice the broccoli into small florets for quicker cooking.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream cheese and milk.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

280.3 calories; protein 17.7g (35% DV); carbohydrates 33g (11% DV); fat 8.5g (13% DV); cholesterol 38.4mg (13% DV); sodium 313.5mg (13% DV).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Penne or fettuccine would work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and broccoli and toss everything together.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken pasta with broccoli is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy a balanced meal that’s full of flavor. I invite you to try this recipe in your kitchen and share your experiences with us. Bon appétit!

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