Creamy Rotini with Chicken and Broccoli
This delicious dish is a perfect substitute for Cavatappi Pasta, using rotini instead. It's easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta cooked according to package instructions (reserve ¼ cup of pasta water)
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until fully cooked. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until onions are translucent.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes, or until sauce begins to thicken.
- Stir in cooked chicken, reserved pasta water, and cooked rotini pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat or gluten-free rotini pasta.
- You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Add them in step 6 and cook until tender before adding in the cream and broth. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- You can also use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option. The sauce will not be as thick, but still delicious.
- Add in some red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs for an added kick of flavor. Sprinkle over the top before serving.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cupCalories: 727kcalCarbohydrates: 51gProtein: 34gFat: 43gSaturated Fat: 21gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 140mgSodium: 382mgPotassium: 794mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1214IUVitamin C: 43mgCalcium: 146mgIron: 4mg
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