Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Welcome to a delectable journey where comfort meets convenience in this scrumptious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all enhanced with a kick of spices. Get ready to wow your taste buds and gather around the table for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 16 ounces pipe rigate pasta (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2½ cups milk
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 3-ounce bag sun-dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped

Directions:

1. Prepare Pasta and Broccoli:
   • In a large pot, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In the last three minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to blanch. Drain well and return to the pan. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Cook Chicken and Onions:
   • While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, diced onions, minced garlic, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the onions are tender and translucent.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the cooked chicken mixture and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in the milk and vegetable broth, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat and let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Serve:
   • Reduce the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and combined with the sauce. Pour this creamy sauce over the pasta and broccoli in the pot, stirring until everything is well coated and mixed.
   • Serve the pasta hot, ideally with a side of salad or some crusty bread smeared with butter or garlic spread.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Calories: 640 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta not only fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma but also promises a burst of flavors with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to spice up your weeknight meal rotation, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the melding of textures and flavors, and don’t forget to personalize it with your favorite pasta or add more veggies for an even healthier twist. Bon appétit!