Penne with broccoli

Delicious Pasta Recipe with Broccoli and Chicken

I invite you to discover together a pasta recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of health to your plate. This pasta with broccoli and chicken is an excellent choice for a quick and nutritious dinner, perfect for the whole family.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 pack of penne pasta (400g)
- 1 broccoli (approximately 300g)
- 1 piece of chicken breast (approximately 400g, grilled or fried)
- 2 tubs of cottage cheese (approximately 400g, you can also use cottage cheese with green onions or peppers)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan, for topping
- 1 tablespoon of butter (for the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 3-4 tablespoons of milk
- A little butter or oil for greasing the baking dish

Recipe History

This recipe has deep roots in traditional cuisine, combining simple ingredients into a comforting dish. Pasta is a versatile ingredient, and adding fresh vegetables like broccoli gives it a refreshing touch and considerable nutritional value. Broccoli, rich in vitamins C and K, is an excellent ally for health, and together with chicken breast, it creates a perfect combination of protein and fiber.

Step by Step

1. Boiling the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, adding a teaspoon of salt. When the water boils, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

2. Preparing the Broccoli
In another pot, add salted water and bring it to a boil. When it starts to boil, add the broccoli florets and let them boil for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crunchy. Drain and set aside.

3. Preparing the Sauce
In a skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and mix well to obtain a smooth roux. Continue stirring for 1-2 minutes. Then, gradually add the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Combining the Ingredients
Once the sauce has thickened, add the diced or sliced chicken breast, cottage cheese, and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta and mix everything to combine the ingredients.

5. Assembling the Dish
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with a little butter or oil. Start by adding a layer of pasta with sauce on the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of broccoli. Continue with another layer of pasta and another layer of broccoli. Finally, generously sprinkle grated Parmesan on top.

6. Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for about 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let the dish bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta recipe with broccoli and chicken is delicious served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or cherry tomatoes for a pleasant contrast. You can add a little extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad for an extra flavor boost.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as carrots or cauliflower, to diversify the dish's flavor. Additionally, substituting cottage cheese with ricotta or mozzarella can provide a different texture and richer taste.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken breast, and contains antioxidants from the broccoli. The calories for one serving are approximately 450 kcal, and the dish is rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a fantastic choice for an extra boost of fiber and nutrients.

2. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using vegan pasta, plant milk, and tofu instead of chicken breast.

I hope you enjoy this pasta recipe with broccoli and chicken, and may each bite bring you joy and satisfaction! Cooking is an art that improves with each attempt, so don't hesitate to experiment and put your personal touch on every dish. Enjoy your meal!