Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Pasta
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Pasta! This simple yet delicious one-dish meal features tender strips of chicken sautéed with vibrant broccoli and garlic, all tied together in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Finished off with a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is not only comforting but also nutritious, making it a perfect fit for families or cozy dinners with friends. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
whole wheat spaghetti
4 ounces (uncooked)
reduced-fat Italian dressing
1/4 cup (light zesty flavor recommended)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
boneless skinless chicken breast
1/2 lb (cut into strips)
broccoli florets
2 cups (fresh)
tomatoes
1/2 cup (chopped)
2% milk reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup (shredded, divided)
parmesan cheese
4 teaspoons (grated)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a large nonstick skillet, add the reduced-fat Italian dressing and minced garlic. Heat over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3
Add the chicken strips to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4
Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook and stir for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender and vibrant green.
5
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, cooking for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and the cheese starts to melt.
6
Incorporate the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, tossing gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
7
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Allow it to rest for a minute to let the cheese melt slightly.
8
Serve the creamy parmesan chicken and broccoli pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Pasta.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
The entire meal can be whipped up in under 30 minutes.
What type of pasta is used in this dish?
This recipe uses 4 ounces of uncooked whole wheat spaghetti.
What is the base for the sauce?
The sauce base consists of reduced-fat Italian dressing and minced garlic.
What kind of chicken is required?
You will need 1/2 lb of boneless skinless chicken breast cut into strips.
How much broccoli is included?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets.
Are there any tomatoes in this pasta?
Yes, it includes 1/2 cup of chopped tomatoes.
What types of cheese are used?
The recipe uses 2% milk reduced-fat mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
How much mozzarella cheese do I need?
You need 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, divided into two parts.
How much Parmesan cheese is added?
The recipe uses 4 teaspoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
What is the first step in the instructions?
Begin by cooking the whole wheat spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
How should I prepare the garlic?
The 2 garlic cloves should be minced.
What is the recommended Italian dressing?
A light zesty flavor reduced-fat Italian dressing is recommended.
How long should I cook the chicken?
Cook the chicken strips for 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
How long should the broccoli be sautéed?
Sauté the broccoli for 3-4 minutes until it is tender and vibrant green.
When do I add the mozzarella cheese?
Half is added with the tomatoes, and the other half is sprinkled over the top at the end.
What heat level should I use for the skillet?
The skillet should be heated over medium heat.
What is the cooking category for this recipe?
It is categorized as a One Dish Meal.
Is this recipe considered a quick dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick dinner and perfect for busy evenings.
How do I finish the dish before serving?
Allow the pasta to rest for a minute to let the cheese melt slightly after sprinkling on the remaining cheese.
Can I garnish this dish?
Yes, you can garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
What is the texture of the pasta when cooked properly?
The pasta should be cooked until it is al dente.
Is this a comfort food dish?
Yes, it is described as both comforting and nutritious.
How much Italian dressing is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of reduced-fat Italian dressing.
What kind of skillet is recommended?
A large nonstick skillet is recommended for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
How do I combine the pasta with the other ingredients?
Incorporate the cooked spaghetti into the skillet and toss gently to combine evenly.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients in this recipe.
Is fresh or frozen broccoli recommended?
The recipe specifies using fresh broccoli florets.
What flavor profile does the Italian dressing provide?
It provides a light, zesty flavor to the sauce.