Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta
- Penne Pasta (8 ounces): A classic choice for creamy dishes, penne holds the sauce beautifully. Substitute with rigatoni or farfalle if desired.
- Broccoli (2 cups, small florets): Adds a fresh, earthy flavor and a nutritional boost.
- Chicken Breasts (2, cooked and cubed): Provides tender, juicy protein. You can use leftover roasted chicken or even shredded rotisserie chicken.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle, fruity richness and prevents sticking.
- Small Onion (1, diced): Sweetens and deepens the flavor profile.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
- Salt and Pepper (1 teaspoon each): Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce without overpowering.
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Creates a creamy base; low-fat milk can be used for a lighter dish.
- Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): The star of the sauce, providing a nutty and salty finish.
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. This keeps the broccoli tender yet slightly crunchy.
- Drain both the pasta and broccoli using a colander and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute until aromatic.
3. Thicken the Sauce
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring a smooth consistency. Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes as the sauce thickens to a velvety texture.
4. Add the Parmesan Cheese
- Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to melt completely, creating a rich, creamy sauce.
5. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and diced chicken into the skillet with the sauce.
- Mix gently with a wooden spoon, ensuring every piece is coated with the luscious Parmesan sauce. Heat everything through for 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the dish to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Achieve Creaminess: For an ultra-rich sauce, use whole milk and freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
- Broccoli Texture: Blanching the broccoli with the pasta ensures it remains vibrant and slightly crunchy.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk while reheating to restore its creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes