Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta)

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)

• ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk (warm)

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta & Broccoli

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   • Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions.

   • During the last 2–3 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the pot.

   • Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.

   • Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).

   • Remove from the pan, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

3. Make the Sauce

   • In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

   • Sauté the onion until soft (about 2 minutes), then add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

   • Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute.

   • Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

   • Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

   • Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

4. Combine & Serve

   • Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce, tossing to coat.

   • Mix in the sliced chicken.

   • Adjust seasoning if needed.

   • Serve warm with extra parmesan cheese on top.

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Optional Variations:

• Make it creamier – Add ½ cup of heavy cream or an extra ¼ cup of parmesan.

• Add spice – Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a kick.

• More protein – Stir in crispy bacon or shrimp.

• Lighter version – Use low-fat milk and replace half the parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Let me know if you need any modifications! 😊