Discover a comforting and flavorful Broccoli Chicken Ziti Recipe that is perfect for family dinners. Easy to make and delicious to enjoy!
Introducing a hearty and delicious dish that will become a favorite at your dinner table: Broccoli Chicken Ziti. This recipe combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and zesty pasta for a satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with loved ones, this dish fits the bill perfectly.
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Origin of Broccoli Chicken Ziti Recipe
Originating from Italian-American cuisine, Broccoli Chicken Ziti has become a popular choice for home cooks seeking a balanced and flavorful meal option. The dish typically consists of cooked ziti pasta tossed with sautéed chicken breast and broccoli florets, seasoned with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Without further ado, let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious dish for a family of four.
Broccoli Chicken Ziti Recipe
Ingredients for 4 servings:
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Steps to prepare:
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet, along with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
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Things to remember
- Be sure not to overcook the broccoli to maintain its bright green color and crisp texture.
- Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the diced chicken breasts in Italian dressing for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking.
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FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ziti?
A: Yes, you can substitute ziti with other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. However, keep in mind that different shapes may affect the texture and overall presentation of the dish.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli florets?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh broccoli florets. Simply thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the skillet, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Broccoli Chicken Ziti ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Adjust the seasonings to taste and follow the same steps for cooking and assembly.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of Broccoli Chicken Ziti?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this dish for future meals. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
