chicken ziti broccoli recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
chicken ziti broccoli recipe
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The Best chicken ziti broccoli recipe

I’ve been making this chicken ziti broccoli recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. My family loves it, and I love how easy it is to make. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful ziti pasta, and steamed broccoli is a match made in heaven.

I’ve served this dish at countless family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too once you try it. The best part?

It’s incredibly healthy and packed with nutrients from the broccoli and lean protein from the chicken. My kids devour it, and I feel good about what they’re eating. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious, wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare.

And the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes! So, if you’re looking for a new family favorite or just want to mix up your usual dinner routine, give this chicken ziti broccoli recipe a try.

Your taste buds and your body will thank you.

Creamy Chicken Ziti with Broccoli

Creamy Chicken Ziti with Broccoli

4.7 from 630 votes

A comforting one-pot pasta dish featuring tender chicken, al dente ziti, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy Parmesan sauce. This hearty meal comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz ziti pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the ziti and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3In the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
4Cook until bright green and tender-crisp, then drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander.
5While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook without stirring for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown on one side.
7Stir the chicken and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
8Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
9Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet.
10Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
11Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
12Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
13Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
14Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
15Add the cooked chicken, ziti, and broccoli back into the skillet.
16Toss everything together until evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
17Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Chicken Ziti with Broccoli Works

This chicken ziti broccoli recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. The leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for later use.

Reheat by steaming or microwaving until hot throughout. Serve hot over garlic bread or with a side salad for added nutrition.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Ziti with Broccoli

What type of pasta should I use?

Ziti pasta is the perfect choice for this recipe because of its tubular shape and rough texture that helps hold onto the sauce. You can also use other types of pasta like penne or rigatoni if you can’t find ziti.

How do I cook the broccoli without overcooking it?

To prevent overcooking the broccoli, steam it separately until it reaches your desired level of tenderness. You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil to the broccoli during the last minute of cooking to help preserve its color and texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli as a substitute for fresh broccoli in this recipe. Just thaw the frozen broccoli according to the package instructions before steaming it.

What if I don’t have any chicken broth on hand?

If you don’t have chicken broth available, you can substitute it with water or another low-sodium broth option like vegetable or beef broth.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, cook it al dente by following the package instructions for cooking time. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside until you’re ready to assemble the dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time by cooking the ziti pasta and steaming the broccoli separately until they’re both ready to assemble into one dish.

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