Introduction
Looking for a hearty, wholesome dinner idea the whole family will love? This creamy chicken broccoli ziti recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make, even on your busiest weeknights.
Packed with tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and perfectly cooked ziti, all wrapped in a luscious sauce, this dish is proof that quick and simple meals can also be deliciously satisfying.
Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast, a home cook looking to whip up something special, or a busy parent juggling dinner and evening chores, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s made in just one pot, saving you time and effort on cleanup!
Keep reading to learn how to create this creamy chicken broccoli ziti masterpiece step-by-step, along with tips and tricks to customize it to suit your taste.
What Makes Chicken Broccoli Ziti Special?
Chicken broccoli ziti combines everything you love about comfort food into one dish:
- Protein-packed chicken provides heartiness.
- Broccoli adds a vibrant pop of color, crunch, and nutrients to balance the dish.
- Ziti pasta brings satisfying texture, locking in all that creamy sauce.
The creamy sauce itself ties everything together. With hints of garlic, a touch of Parmesan, and a hint of seasoning, it’s a flavor sensation. And did we mention it’s all made in a single pot? That means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a meal prep staple, or a dish to impress guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients You'll Need
Before you get started, gather these simple ingredients. You may already have some of them in your pantry or fridge!
For the Creamy Chicken Broccoli Ziti:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream or a half-and-half mixture
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon zest for a citrusy twist
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Wash and chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets if using fresh broccoli. Dice your chicken into small, even pieces to ensure quick and even cooking. Mince the garlic cloves and shred your Parmesan cheese. With everything prepped, the cooking process becomes a breeze!
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Using the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until it’s fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Add Broth, Cream, and Seasoning
Deglaze the pot by pouring in the chicken broth, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Stir in the uncooked ziti pasta. Allow it to cook in the broth and cream mixture, absorbing all those incredible flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.
When the pasta is halfway cooked (about 6-7 minutes), toss in the broccoli florets. This ensures they’ll cook perfectly tender while retaining their vibrant color.
Step 6: Add the Chicken Back and Stir in Cheese
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and create a creamy, velvety texture.
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper, if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pot from the heat. Plate your chicken broccoli ziti, garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a hot, comforting meal.
Pro Tip for Perfection
Did your sauce become too thick? Add a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to loosen it up. Want extra creaminess? Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone just before serving.
How to Customize Your Chicken Broccoli Ziti
- Cheese Swap: Feel free to try shredded mozzarella or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: Throw in extras like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor variety.
- Make It Sparkle: Add citrusy freshness by squeezing lemon juice or grating lemon zest right before serving.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for dietary needs.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This chicken broccoli ziti stands out for its incredible convenience, flavor, and versatility:
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, less cleanup.
- Family-Friendly: Kids will love it, and you’ll appreciate sneaking in healthy broccoli.
- Customizable and Adaptable: Use what you have on hand to make it your own.
It’s a timeless recipe that hits all the right notes, making weeknight dinners exciting again.
Take Your Dinner to the Next Level
Cooking doesn't have to be stressful or time-consuming. With this chicken broccoli ziti recipe, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish ready in under an hour. Perfectly balanced in flavor, nutrition, and convenience, it’s comfort food with a touch of elegance.
Looking for more quick and delicious recipes to add to your repertoire? Bookmark this recipe and join us for a regular serving of kitchen delights. Happy cooking!
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