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Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Toss Recipe photo

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Toss Recipe

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Toss is a quick, nutritious delight! Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it's perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces whole wheat rotini or penne pasta
  • 12 ounces broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 4 pieces lemon chicken thighs skin removed, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fat-free, low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup fresh, grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup walnuts toasted

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Skillet for sautéing
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Cutting board and knife for chopping
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your 12 ounces of whole wheat rotini or penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
  2. During the last 3 minutes of cooking the pasta, add the 12 ounces of broccoli florets to the pot. This will allow the broccoli to cook while the pasta finishes. Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander, then set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped lemon chicken thighs and season with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Once the chicken is golden brown, add the thinly sliced garlic clove to the skillet. Sauté for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  5. Pour in 1/2 cup of fat-free, low sodium chicken broth and stir. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of fresh, grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of toasted walnuts. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly coated.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to revive flavors.
  • Feel free to substitute pasta or nuts based on your preference.