Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Pasta & Vegetables:

• 8 oz penne or bow-tie pasta

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups heavy cream

• ½ cup whole milk

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Cook Pasta and Broccoli:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente

2. Add broccoli florets during the last 3-4 minutes of pasta cooking time

3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining, then drain pasta and broccoli together

Prepare Chicken:
4. Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
6. Cook seasoned chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F)
7. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside

Make Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
8. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat
9. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant
10. Sprinkle flour over garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly
11. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk, stirring until smooth
12. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens
13. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth
14. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using

Final Assembly:
15. Add cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet with the sauce
16. Toss everything together until well coated, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce
17. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese
18. Serve immediately while hot

This creamy, restaurant-quality pasta dish combines tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and al dente pasta in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce that serves 4 people and can be prepared in about 30 minutes.