If you are looking for a comforting, creamy, and vibrant dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, then you are in for a treat with this Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe. It’s a delightful combination where the rich, cheesy sauce meets the wholesome goodness of vegetables, making every bite a harmonious blend of flavor and texture. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to whip up and savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity and use of essential ingredients that merge seamlessly to create a balanced and delicious meal. Each element plays a unique role in adding vibrant flavor, color, and a satisfying texture to the dish.
- Whole grain pasta (2 cups): Provides a nutty flavor and hearty texture that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2): The lean protein that turns this pasta into a filling, nutritious meal.
- Broccoli florets (1 cup): Adds a lovely pop of green and a fresh crunch that balances the richness.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used for sautéing chicken to a perfect golden brown and adds subtle fruitiness.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Brings aromatic depth and warmth to the creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luscious, velvety base for the parmesan sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Adds sharp, nutty flavor essential for the signature richness of this dish.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant mix of herbs that enhances the chicken and sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning each component to perfection.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright garnish that adds color and a hint of freshness at the end.
How to Make Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your whole grain pasta and cook it according to package instructions until al dente for that perfect bite. About two or three minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets so they blanch just enough to stay crisp yet tender. Drain everything and set aside so you’re ready for the next step.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, take the two boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple rub infuses the chicken with great flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re fully cooked through and boast a gorgeous golden-brown crust. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it gently for about a minute, just until it becomes aromatic without browning. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This sauce is the heart of the Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe, enveloping the dish in rich, cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Broccoli
Slice your rested chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or strips. Add the sliced chicken to the creamy sauce along with the drained pasta and broccoli florets. Gently toss everything together in the skillet, ensuring every piece and noodle is beautifully coated in the luscious Parmesan sauce. This step is what makes the dish feel cohesive and satisfying.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. The parsley adds a splash of color and a burst of freshness that lightens the rich flavors beautifully. Now your Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is ready to serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
While chopped fresh parsley is a classic and must for this dish, you can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a few red pepper flakes if you enjoy a slight kick. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil before serving can enhance the flavors and give your dish a glossy finish.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is rich and filling, pair it with a simple, crisp salad—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad to add a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread also makes a perfect accompaniment, perfect for mopping up every bit of that dreamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls garnished with a sprig of parsley and freshly ground black pepper. Alternatively, present it family-style in a large serving dish surrounded by bowls of grated Parmesan and lemon wedges for a cheerful, communal vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, but be sure to keep it chilled promptly to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Keep in mind that the pasta texture may soften after freezing, but the flavor remains delightful.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess if needed. Avoid microwaving at high power as it can make the chicken tough and the sauce separate. Stir frequently for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While whole grain fettuccine or penne is recommended for texture and flavor, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or even gluten-free varieties to suit your needs.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half mixed with a bit of butter or a combination of milk and cream cheese to help maintain the sauce’s richness, though heavy cream gives the best texture and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it works wonderfully for meal prep since it reheats well and actually tastes better after the flavors meld overnight. Just store in portion-sized containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add extra broccoli or mushrooms for protein and texture. You could also add spinach for a true Florentine touch. The sauce remains delicious and creamy.
How spicy is this dish?
This Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is mild and kid-friendly by default, but you can always add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is truly one of those versatile, comforting meals that never fails to impress. The combination of creamy Parmesan sauce with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli makes it both nourishing and indulgent. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, and let the cooking magic begin. You’re just a few steps away from enjoying a deliciously satisfying dinner that your family and friends will love again and again.
Print
Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta recipe is a creamy, comforting dish that combines perfectly cooked whole grain pasta, tender seasoned chicken breasts, and fresh broccoli florets in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that balances hearty protein, vegetables, and flavorful cheese for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Pasta
- 2 cups whole grain pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole grain pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water alongside the pasta. Drain both and set aside.
- Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest.
- Sauté Garlic and Add Cream: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Broccoli: Slice the rested chicken breasts and add them to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Then add the drained pasta and broccoli. Gently toss all the ingredients together to coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Parmesan Chicken Florentine and Broccoli Pasta!
Notes
- Use whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- You can substitute broccoli with other green vegetables like spinach or asparagus.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
