Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta

Savor a delightful Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta, featuring tender pieces of chicken breast, vibrant broccoli florets, and sweet corn, all tossed with pasta in a creamy garlic sauce. This dish is not only healthy but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and colorful ingredients, this meal is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the broccoli and sweet corn, this pasta is both healthy and satisfying.
• Creamy & Flavorful: The creamy garlic sauce enhances the taste of the chicken and vegetables, making every bite delicious.
• Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting pasta dish, ensuring no leftovers!
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or using a different type of pasta.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta smoothly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently without crowding.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and vegetables in one pan for easy cleanup.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces penne pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
1. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
2. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet:
1. Add the broccoli florets.
2. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until just tender.
3. Add sweet corn and minced garlic; stir for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat:
1. Stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning; let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
2. Gradually add Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet:
1. Toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Transfer to a serving dish:
1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta

Serving Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta can be both fun and creative. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnishes to elevate its flavors. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, these flakes offer a spicy kick.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens the dish and enhances the flavors.

Pairing Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, garlic bread complements this pasta wonderfully.
• Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Vegetables: Additional veggies like green beans or carrots can add more nutrients to your meal.

Presentation Tips

• Serve in Bowls: Individual bowls make for a cozy presentation, ideal for family-style dining.
• Top with Extra Cheese: A final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top makes it look appealing and indulgent.

How to Perfect Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta

To achieve the perfect Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta, follow these tips. They will help you create a creamy, flavorful dish that everyone will love.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, broccoli, and sweet corn enhance flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta; it should have a slight firmness to hold up against the sauce.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Let the Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop deeper flavors before combining with other ingredients.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta can turn your meal into an even more satisfying feast. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with Caesar dressing adds a crunchy texture alongside your creamy pasta.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a delicious earthiness that pairs well with the flavors of the pasta.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic will brighten up your plate with vibrant colors.
4. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: These crispy potatoes provide a hearty contrast to the smoothness of the pasta dish.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread muffins make an excellent accompaniment for soaking up extra sauce.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor and is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Not seasoning the water: Failing to salt your pasta cooking water can lead to bland noodles. Always add a generous amount of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Aim for a golden brown color and ensure it’s cooked through without overdoing it.
• Skipping the fresh herbs: Neglecting fresh parsley or other herbs can reduce flavor depth. Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens up the dish significantly.
• Ignoring pasta al dente: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and unappetizing. Follow package instructions for cooking time to keep your pasta firm.
• Not using enough sauce: A dry pasta can be unappealing. Ensure you have enough creamy sauce by adjusting quantities or adding a splash of pasta water if needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Label and date your container for easy identification.

Freezing Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning out servings for easier thawing later.

Reheating Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of cream or broth while reheating. Stir frequently until heated thoroughly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. Swap the penne for any pasta shape you prefer.

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this dish. Just add it when you combine all ingredients together.

Is Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta healthy?

This recipe is balanced with protein from chicken, fiber from broccoli, and carbs from pasta. Using whole grain pasta increases its nutritional value further.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne is ideal due to its ability to hold sauce well. However, you may use fusilli or farfalle as alternatives based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Chicken, Broccoli and Sweetcorn Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily modify this recipe with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have at home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that your family will love!