One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
A comforting and easy one-pot pasta dish combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and velvety cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces juicy and tender protein
- 1/2 teaspoon salt seasoning to enhance chicken flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper seasoning for the chicken
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided for cooking the chicken and vegetables
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped adds aromatic flavor
- 1 1/2 cups carrots, shredded adds natural sweetness and color
- 1 cup chicken stock either homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup water to create consistency for the pasta
- 2 cups ditalini pasta, uncooked small, tube-shaped pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika adds warmth and flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard adds depth of flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric adds earthiness
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped into small pieces adds color and nutrients
- 1/2 cup heavy cream creates a rich sauce
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated star ingredient for cheesy flavor
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated adds nutty flavor
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs for crispy topping
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted to help breadcrumbs brown
Instructions
Cooking Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken in the pan and cook until golden brown on each side, approximately 6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sautéing Vegetables
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sauté the finely chopped onions until translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add the shredded carrots and continue to sauté for another 30 seconds.
Cooking Pasta
- Pour in the chicken stock and water, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the uncooked ditalini pasta, paprika, ground mustard, and turmeric.
- Cover and cook, stirring every 2 minutes, until the pasta is softened but not quite al dente, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chopped broccoli and heavy cream.
Combining Ingredients
- Allow the broccoli to soften in the pan for about 2-4 minutes.
- Gently fold in the grated cheddar cheese and the cooked chicken until combined and creamy.
Crispy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter.
- Sprinkle the mixture over the pasta and broil for 2-4 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and serve warm.
Notes
Consider sautéing garlic with the onions for extra flavor. Adding lemon juice before serving brightens the dish, and adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach boosts nutrition.