Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spaghetti with Broccoli and Chicken

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: nutrivitahub.com
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Description

Our Spaghetti with Broccoli and Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente spaghetti in a light, savory sauce.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this meal offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, making it a family favorite that’s both healthy and delicious

  • Diet: Meat-Based
  • Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Spaghetti:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the Broccoli:
    • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
    • Add the broccoli florets and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli.
    • Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the broth has reduced slightly.
  5. Mix with Spaghetti:
    • Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine all the ingredients.
    • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice (if using). Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve:
    • Divide the spaghetti among plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
    • Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Enjoy your Spaghetti with Broccoli and Chicken, a perfect blend of savory flavors and wholesome ingredients!


Notes

Tips for Making the Perfect Spaghetti with Broccoli and Chicken

  1. Cook Pasta Al Dente:
    • Be sure to cook the spaghetti until it’s just al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite, not mushy. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot chicken and broccoli.
  2. Season Generously:
    • Season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the flavor of the meat. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end as well.
  3. Fresh Ingredients:
    • Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor. Frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch, but it may not have the same crispness.
  4. Garlic:
    • Be careful not to burn the garlic. Cook it just until it’s fragrant. Burned garlic can give a bitter taste to the dish.
  5. Chicken Broth:
    • Use low-sodium chicken broth so you can better control the salt level in the dish. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of white wine.
  6. Lemon Juice:
    • Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a nice tangy touch. It’s optional but highly recommended.
  7. Parmesan Cheese:
    • Grate your own Parmesan cheese if possible. It melts better and has a fresher flavor compared to pre-grated versions.
  8. Keep it Warm:
    • If you’re not serving immediately, keep the dish warm by covering the skillet with a lid and placing it over very low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  9. Garnish:
    • Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herby flavor that complements the dish well. Don’t skip the garnish!
  10. Leftovers:
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Following these tips will help ensure your Spaghetti with Broccoli and Chicken turns out delicious every time!