Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, cut into small bite size pieces)
- 2 cups broccoli (cut into small florets, about 1 head of broccoli)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings
- 8 ounces pasta (uncooked, such as penne, shells, or rigatoni)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for another 2 minutes until the onions become slightly softened and fragrant.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Add Broccoli: Remove the lid and stir in the broccoli florets. Continue cooking uncovered for a couple more minutes, allowing the liquid to evaporate and the broccoli to become tender but still crisp.
- Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the nutmeg and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use low sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- Any short pasta like penne, shells, or rigatoni works well.
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese along with the cheddar.
- Ensure to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
