Pasta ziti with chicken and broccoli

6 servings

30 minutes

Ziti pasta with chicken and broccoli is a vibrant and aromatic dish from Italian cuisine that combines the tenderness of chicken, creaminess of the sauce, and freshness of vegetables. Ziti, a traditional tubular pasta, perfectly absorbs the flavors of broth, milk, and parmesan, creating a rich texture. Broccoli adds a fresh, slightly crunchy note while bell pepper contributes sweetness and color. Oregano and garlic deepen the flavor while a splash of lemon juice highlights the balance of tastes. Inspired by traditional Italian recipes, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner creating an atmosphere of warmth and enjoyment. Nutritious, balanced and rich in beneficial elements it will appeal to Mediterranean cuisine lovers and those who appreciate harmonious flavor combinations.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 400.5
• Proteins: 30.6g
• Fats: 15.3g
• Carbohydrates: 39g

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: 450 g
• Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp
• Onion: 1 head
• Red pepper flakes: 0.3 tsp
• Dried oregano: 0.3 tsp
• Garlic: 3 clove
• Pasta ziti: 220 g
• Chicken broth: 2 glass
• Milk: 1 glass
• Broccoli cabbage: 670 g
• Sweet canned peppers: 175 g
• Parmesan cheese: 30 g
• Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Ground black pepper: to taste

Cooking steps

1. Dry the chicken with paper towels, cut into pieces of 2-2.5 cm and season with salt and pepper. Melt 1 tablespoon of oil in a 30 cm diameter pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4 minutes until lightly browned. Then transfer to a plate.

   Required ingredients:

   • Chicken breast: 450 g
   • Salt: 1 teaspoon
   • Ground black pepper:  to taste
   • Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons

2. Add another tablespoon of oil, chopped onion, pepper flakes, oregano, and half a teaspoon of salt. Fry for 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft, then add the chopped garlic and cook for another 15 seconds.

   Required ingredients:

   • Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons
   • Onion: 1 head
   • Red pepper flakes: 0.3 teaspoon
   • Dried oregano: 0.3 teaspoon
   • Salt: 1 teaspoon
   • Garlic: 3 cloves

3. Place the pasta in the pan and pour in milk and broth. Cover with a lid and bring to a boil — this will take about 2 minutes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Pasta ziti: 220 g
   • Chicken broth: 2 glasss
   • Milk: 1 glass

4. Break the broccoli into florets and cut into 2 cm pieces. Wash the bell peppers and cut into strips 0.5 cm thick. Reduce the heat to below medium and add the vegetables. Then cover with a lid and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Broccoli cabbage: 670 g
   • Sweet canned peppers: 175 g

5. Add the chicken and mix everything. Cover again and cook for another 3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

   Required ingredients:

   • Chicken breast: 450 g

6. Add the last spoon of oil, grated parmesan, lemon juice, and season to taste with salt and pepper.

   Required ingredients:

   • Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons
   • Parmesan cheese: 30 g
   • Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
   • Salt: 1 teaspoon
   • Ground black pepper:  to taste