Quick and Delicious Creamy Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli

Looking for a comforting yet light pasta dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying? This Creamy Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli is a fantastic choice! With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, garlicky sauce, this dish offers all the indulgence you crave but without the extra calories. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a special family gathering. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for those busy nights when you want something healthy and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to weeknight meal.
Flavor-Packed: A creamy sauce that’s rich in flavor without being heavy.
Balanced & Nutritious: Chicken for protein, broccoli for fiber, and pasta for that perfect comfort food feel.
Customizable: Easily swap in whole wheat pasta, add extra veggies, or adjust seasoning to suit your tastes.
Lightened-Up: All the creaminess you want without the added guilt.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz whole wheat pasta (or your preferred pasta)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt (or low-fat sour cream)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot with the pasta. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the skillet.
3. Reduce the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, thyme, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together until well coated and heated through.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

Serve

1. Divide the creamy pasta mixture into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 | Protein: 30g | Carbs: 40g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 6g
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Tips for Success

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: For extra fiber and nutrients, opt for whole wheat pasta or any alternative pasta of your choice.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make the dish even more nutritious.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra chicken broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
• Meal Prep: This dish makes great leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced & Satisfying: This dish offers lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the broccoli, and complex carbs from the pasta, making it a filling meal.
• Lightened-Up Comfort Food: The creamy sauce comes from Greek yogurt, which adds a rich texture without the heavy calories of traditional cream-based sauces.
• Easy to Customize: Whether you prefer more vegetables, want to add some extra spice, or swap out the chicken for another protein like shrimp or turkey, this dish is versatile and adaptable.

This Creamy Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli is a delicious, balanced meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and wholesome broccoli, it’s comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down. Make it your new go-to weeknight dinner or meal prep favorite!