This recipe delivers a comforting, flavorful chicken ziti with broccoli, all tossed in a creamy garlic and oil sauce. It's simpler than you might think, yet bursting with deliciousness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
What makes this Chicken Ziti with Broccoli Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out due to its balance of flavors and textures. The creamy garlic and oil sauce provides richness without being heavy. The tender chicken and perfectly cooked broccoli add protein and vibrant color. The ziti pasta provides a hearty base for the sauce and all the ingredients, resulting in a satisfying and delicious meal. We'll be skipping the heavy cream for a lighter, yet still decadent, sauce!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Ziti Perfection
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and ziti to the skillet with the broccoli. Stir to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
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Finish the Sauce: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Toss everything together until well coated.
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Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While ziti works wonderfully due to its shape, you can substitute with other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Add them along with the broccoli.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and substitute with your favorite vegetarian protein source, such as chickpeas, lentils, or firm tofu.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken separately and store them in the refrigerator. Sauté the broccoli and garlic just before combining everything.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best Chicken Ziti with Broccoli
- Don't overcook the pasta or broccoli. Al dente pasta and tender-crisp broccoli are key to the best texture.
- Use good quality olive oil. The flavor of the olive oil will shine through in the final dish.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your preferences.
- Garnish generously! Fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese add a beautiful finish and enhance the flavor.
This creamy garlic and oil chicken ziti with broccoli recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
