Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible Skillet Ziti with Chicken and Broccoli! This one-pan wonder combines tender ziti pasta, seared slices of seasoned chicken breast, and crisp broccoli, all simmered in a rich tomato cream sauce infused with garlic and a touch of spice from optional red pepper flakes. A luscious topping of melted Parmesan and mozzarella adds a cheesy finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready in just 45 minutes, this easy skillet recipe is perfect for busy evenings and minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and extra freshness, and serve this hearty dish straight from the skillet for a comforting family meal. Keywords: one-pan dinner, skillet pasta recipe, chicken ziti with broccoli, easy dinner ideas, creamy tomato pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta for 2 minutes less than the package instructions indicate, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with half the salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, remaining salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Gently stir in the broccoli florets and partially cooked ziti. Cover the skillet and cook on medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender and the pasta is al dente.
Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and mix it into the pasta and sauce.
Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Calories |
3581 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 140.3 g | 180% | |
| Saturated Fat | 63.0 g | 315% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 666 mg | 222% | |
| Sodium | 4939 mg | 215% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 314.2 g | 114% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 35.5 g | 127% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.6 g | ||
| Protein | 267.0 g | 534% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 2122 mg | 163% | |
| Iron | 25.6 mg | 142% | |
| Potassium | 3285 mg | 70% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.