Hey there, welcome back to my kitchen at Recipes by Betty!
Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorites: Broccoli Ziti and Chicken. If you’re looking for a dish that’s hearty, nutritious, and seriously comforting, you’re going to love this one.
Broccoli, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked ziti pasta come together in a dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Plus, it’s super versatile whether you prefer it light with garlic and olive oil, or indulgent with a creamy Alfredo sauce, it adapts to your mood!
And if you’re hungry for more delicious lunch ideas, be sure to check out my Lunch Recipes collection.
Let’s dive into this comforting classic that’s bound to become a favorite in your home too!
Table of Contents
What Makes Broccoli Ziti and Chicken So Special?
Broccoli Ziti and Chicken is a dish with Italian-American roots a cuisine that blends the best of two incredible food cultures (learn more here).
Here’s why this meal stands out:
- Nutrition-Packed: Thanks to broccoli’s high vitamin C, K, and fiber content, and the lean protein from chicken.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: It reheats beautifully for quick lunches during the week.
- Customizable: Choose your favorite sauce and throw in extra veggies if you like!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make the magic happen:
- Ziti Pasta (or penne as a substitute)
- Fresh Broccoli Florets
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (or thighs for extra flavor)
- Garlic Cloves, minced
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Parmesan Cheese (for that final savory touch)
- Optional: Alfredo Sauce, Red Pepper Flakes, Fresh Herbs (like basil or parsley)
How to Make Broccoli Ziti and Chicken: Step-by-Step
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil the ziti pasta in salted water until al dente. Need a refresher on perfect pasta cooking? Check this guide here!
3. Steam the Broccoli
Steam or blanch broccoli until it’s vibrant green and just tender. Overcooking makes it mushy we want that perfect crisp-tender bite.
4. Cook the Chicken
Sear the chicken in a hot pan until golden and fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F). Slice into strips or cubes once done.
5. Assemble the Dish
Toss cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken together. Add olive oil and garlic, or Alfredo sauce if you prefer something creamy.
6. Finish It Off
Top with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of herbs. Serve immediately while everything is hot and delicious!
Pro Tips for Success
- Save Pasta Water: It’s perfect for loosening up the sauce if needed.
- Marinate the Chicken: Try using this chicken marinade guide for even juicier results.
- Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Keep it vibrant and slightly crisp to preserve nutrients.
Variations You’ll Love
Cheesy Bake: Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly!
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Why Broccoli is a Superfood Star
Did you know that broccoli is one of the healthiest veggies you can eat?
It’s packed with:
- Vitamin C: Boosts immunity.
- Vitamin K: Essential for bone health.
- Fiber: Great for digestion and feeling full longer.
- Antioxidants: Like sulforaphane, which may help protect against certain diseases.
So when you’re eating this dish, you’re not just indulging you’re nourishing your body too!
Perfect Pairings
Looking to complete the meal? Here are my favorite pairings:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside, soft inside.
- Caesar Salad: Fresh, crisp, and classic.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy or garlicky flavors beautifully.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: Sparkling lemon water is fresh and uplifting!
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Yes! This dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to bring back the sauciness.
FAQs About Broccoli Ziti and Chicken
Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are great alternatives.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use a plant-based cream alternative and skip the cheese it’s still just as delicious!
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Prep all components in advance and toss them together just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Broccoli Ziti and Chicken is a dish that’s full of heart, flavor, and flexibility. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for company.
I hope you give it a try and if you do, don’t forget to leave a comment or tag me on Instagram with your creations!
Hungry for more comforting meals? Browse all my Lunch Recipes for fresh ideas you’ll adore.
From my kitchen to yours with love,
Betty ❤️
Broccoli Ziti and Chicken
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot
- Strainer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz ziti pasta
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into cubes
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin preferred
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, optional
- Italian seasoning optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, steam or blanch the broccoli for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp. Set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!