Roasted Garlic and Broccoli Chicken Pasta

• 8 oz pasta (like penne or farfalle)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 head garlic, cloves roasted
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F. Wrap the whole garlic head in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and roast for 30 minutes.
2. 2 Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions, adding broccoli for the last 3 minutes.
3. 3 In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden and cooked through.
4. 4 Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into the skillet, mash with a fork, and stir in red pepper flakes if using.
5. 5 Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine.
6. 6 Drain pasta and broccoli, then add to the skillet. Toss to coat.
7. 7 Season with salt and pepper, then stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until creamy.
8. 8 Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Equipment

• Oven
• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife

Variations

• Add shrimp or diced sausage for extra protein.
• Substitute cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.

Substitutions

• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Steamed asparagus
• A glass of Chardonnay

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté minced shallots or onions before adding the chicken.
• Reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread.
• Serve with a glass of Chardonnay for a delightful dinner experience.

FAQ