Easy Weeknight Dinners(Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli)

The mouthwatering dish of tender chicken, crunchy broccoli, and a delectable creamy sauce is known as Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli. Garlic and Parmesan cheese combine in this dish to make a tasty and cozy supper. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious balance of protein, vegetables, and creamy pasta goodness.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli:

 Ingredients:
18 oz. penne pasta
22 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
32 cups broccoli florets
42 tablespoons olive oil
54 cloves garlic, minced
61 cup heavy cream
71/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8Salt and pepper to taste
9Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-step cooking instructions Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli:

Step-1 Penne pasta should be prepared as directed on the package until al dente. Drain, then set apart.

Step-2 A big skillet’s olive oil should be heated at a medium-high temperature. Simmer the chicken pieces for 5 to 6 minutes, or until they are fully cooked, after adding them. To remove and set aside the chicken from the skillet, proceed.

Step-3 In the same skillet, saute the minced garlic for approximately a minute, or until it begins to smell nice. Be careful not to burn it.

Step-4 The broccoli florets should be tender-crisp after being added to the skillet and cooking for around 3–4 minutes.

Step-5 Pour in the heavy cream after lowering the heat to medium. After including the grated Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper to taste. Until it starts to somewhat thicken, the sauce needs to be heated for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step-6 In the skillet, combine the cooked pasta and chicken with the creamy sauce. Toss to combine. Until the meal is well cooked, cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

Step-7 Remove from heat and top with fresh parsley that has been chopped.

Step-8 Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan pasta with chicken and broccoli hot and enjoy!

Nutritional value of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli:

The estimated nutritional facts for a serving of chicken and broccoli cream sauce pasta with parmesan cheese are listed below. Please note that these values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe:

1Calories: Around 500-600 calories per serving.
2Protein: Approximately 30-40 grams of protein per serving, depending on the portion size and chicken used.
3Carbohydrates: Roughly 40-50 grams of carbohydrates per serving, primarily from the pasta and broccoli.
4Fat: Approximately 20-30 grams of fat per serving, mainly from the cream, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
5Fiber: Around 5-8 grams of fiber per serving, primarily from the broccoli and pasta.
6Vitamins and Minerals: In Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, the broccoli, chicken, and Parmesan cheese supply essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, calcium, and iron.

Background History of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli:

In order to create a delightful and comforting supper, this modern recipe for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli combines well-known ingredients. I don’t have access to the unique historical context of this particular recipe, but I can provide you some broad details regarding the components and their application in cooking.

A mainstay of Italian cuisine for centuries, pasta has a storied history. It is thought to have come from ancient China and then traveled through trade channels to Italy. Pasta evolved into many different shapes and varieties as it became a staple of Italian cuisine over time.

Since ancient times, people have utilized garlic in food because of its distinctive flavor and several health advantages. Numerous international cuisines, including Asian and Mediterranean cuisines, have grown and used it.

Italian cheese is hard. Parmigiano-Reggiano, also referred to as parmesan, has been manufactured for more than 800 years. Italy’s Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and portions of Bologna and Mantua are where it first appeared. Parmesan cheese is frequently used as a grating cheese in pasta recipes due to its rich, nutty flavor.

For thousands of years, humans have devoured chicken, a versatile and popular meat. It is a well-liked protein source that is used in many different international dishes.

A cruciferous vegetable with over 2,000 years of cultivation in the Mediterranean, broccoli is said to have its roots there. In the 20th century, it gained popularity in the United States, and many households today frequently eat it as a vegetable.

The combination of creamy sauces, garlic, Parmesan cheese, chicken, and broccoli in pasta dishes has become a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts. These components’ complementary tastes and textures produce a delicious and savory supper.

While the specific origins and history of the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli recipe are not well-documented, it showcases the creativity and adaptability of cooks who enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to create delicious and comforting dishes.

 Advantages of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli
1Delicious Flavor: This dish offers a delightful combination of creamy, garlic-infused sauce, savory chicken, and vibrant broccoli. The flavors complement each other, resulting in a tasty and satisfying meal.
2Balanced Nutrition: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli provides a balance of protein from the chicken, vitamins and minerals from the broccoli, and carbohydrates from the pasta. It offers a well-rounded meal that incorporates both protein and vegetables.
3Quick and Easy: This recipe is relatively simple to prepare, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. A wonderful dinner can be ready quickly with a few simple steps and easily accessible supplies.
4Versatile and Customizable: The recipe is easily modifiable to accommodate dietary restrictions and personal preferences. To make the recipe more distinctively your own, you can change the proportions of garlic and Parmesan cheese used as well as add new ingredients.
 Disadvantages of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli
1High Calorie and Fat Content: The creamy sauce and cheese in this dish contribute to its rich flavor, but they also increase the calorie and fat content. It’s crucial to only eat a small amount of this dish if you’re counting calories or on a low-fat diet.
2Potential Allergies or Dietary Restrictions: The recipe includes ingredients like chicken, dairy (Parmesan cheese and cream), and gluten (pasta) that may pose challenges for individuals with allergies or dietary restrictions. It’s important to consider alternatives or modifications to accommodate specific needs.
3Texture and Consistency: While the creamy sauce adds richness to the dish, it may not be preferred by those who don’t enjoy creamy or saucy textures. Additionally, the broccoli can become soft when cooked, which may not appeal to those who prefer crisp vegetables.
4Flavor Intensity: The strong flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese are prominent in this dish. While many people enjoy these flavors, those who are sensitive to garlic or find Parmesan cheese overpowering may not fully appreciate the taste profile.

Compare with similar meal of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli is a related dish:

1Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Shrimp and Asparagus: As an alternative to the chicken in the dish, swap shrimp and asparagus for the shellfish. The shrimp adds a delicate flavor, while the asparagus provides a fresh and crisp element.
2Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms: Replace the broccoli with sautéed spinach and mushrooms for a earthy and flavorful variation. Spinach and mushrooms bring their unique tastes and textures to the dish, creating a delightful combination.
3Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: For a vegetarian option, skip the chicken altogether and focus on a variety of grilled or roasted vegetables. Options like zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and eggplant can add vibrant colors and flavors to the creamy pasta dish.
4Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Bacon and Peas: If you’re a fan of the combination of creamy and salty flavors, adding crispy bacon and sweet peas to the pasta dish can create a delicious contrast. The bacon adds a smoky flavor, while the peas bring a touch of sweetness.

Mostly questions asked about Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli

Q: Can I substitute another kind of pasta?

A: You can use any type of pasta that you like or that is in your possession. Penne works well, but other shapes like fettuccine, linguine, or bowtie pasta can also be used.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli for fresh?

A: If you don’t have any fresh broccoli, you can use frozen broccoli. Prior to adding it to the meal, just make sure to thaw it out and drain any extra liquid.

Q: Can I use another protein in place of the chicken?

A: Absolutely! You can use shrimp, cooked sausage, or even tofu as a protein alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for different proteins.

Q: Is the heavy cream essential for the recipe?

A: The heavy cream contributes to the creamy texture of the sauce. However, you can use half-and-half or a lighter cream substitute if you’d like a lighter choice.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version without the chicken and substitute veggie broth for the chicken stock. For more protein, you can also use more vegetables or tofu.

Q: How can I make the dish healthier?

A: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, use less cream or a lighter substitute, and add additional veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to make it healthy.

Q: Can I make this dish in advance?

A: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the components ahead of time and assemble them when ready to serve. Store the pasta, chicken, and sauce separately in the refrigerator, then reheat and combine when needed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: The creamy sauce may not freeze well, as it can separate upon thawing. It is advised to reheat leftovers on the stovetop or in the microwave within a few days of making them.

Q: Can I add additional spices or herbs to the dish?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with adding other spices or herbs, such as red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, or fresh basil, to enhance the flavor to suit your preferences.

Q: Can the recipe be doubled to serve a larger group?

A: Yes, you can easily double or adjust the recipe quantities to serve more people. Just make sure to use a larger pot or skillet to accommodate the increased volume.

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