Chicken Broccoli Ziti Recipe

I know how challenging weeknights can be, trying to get a delicious, wholesome meal on the table. This is why I’m so excited to share my go-to chicken broccoli ziti recipe with you. It’s the ultimate solution for busy families, promising a hearty, satisfying dinner where creamy sauce coats tender pasta and vibrant green broccoli, all complemented by perfectly roasted chicken.

Ingredient Blueprint

Core Ingredients:

• 450 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cubed lean protein (chicken thighs also work for richness).
• 30 mL (2 tbsp) olive oil: For roasting chicken and toasting breadcrumbs.
• Chicken seasonings: 15 mL (1 tbsp) fresh lemon juice, 5 mL (1 tsp) dried oregano, 2.5 mL (1/2 tsp) garlic powder, 2.5 mL (1/2 tsp) onion powder, plus salt and pepper.
• 340 g (12 oz) ziti pasta: The hearty foundation for this “chicken broccoli ziti recipe”.
• 450 g (1 lb) fresh broccoli florets: Essential green vegetables, cut into 2.5-5 cm (1-2 inch) pieces.
• Creamy sauce base: 60 g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, 60 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour, 710 mL (3 cups) warmed whole milk (2% milk works too), and 240 mL (1 cup) chicken broth.
• 180 g (1.5 cups) grated Parmesan-style cheese: For a rich, savory finish (ensure microbial rennet).
• Flavor enhancers: Zest of 1 large lemon (about 5 mL or 1 tsp) and 2 cloves minced garlic.
• 1.25 mL (1/4 tsp) red pepper flakes: Optional, for a subtle warmth.
• Sumac-Kissed Breadcrumbs: 60 g (1 cup) panko breadcrumbs and 10 mL (2 tsp) sumac for a crispy topping.
• Fresh garnish: 30 mL (2 tbsp) finely chopped parsley and 5 mL (1 tsp) extra virgin olive oil.

Premium Options:

Elevate your “chicken broccoli ziti recipe” with high-quality ingredients. Consider organic chicken for better flavor, fresh farmer’s market broccoli for superior texture, and high-quality imported ziti pasta for an authentic bite.

Substitutions for Major Diet Styles:

• Keto/Low-Carb: Use cauliflower florets or zoodles instead of pasta; reduce sauce liquid.
• Vegan/Vegetarian: Omit chicken, use veggie broth. Add chickpeas, plant-based chicken, and dairy-free Parmesan.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ziti pasta for this “chicken broccoli ziti recipe”.
• Diabetic-Friendly: Choose whole wheat ziti and practice careful portion control.

Notes on Freshness & Sourcing:

Fresh broccoli offers the best texture and vibrant color. Frozen broccoli can be a convenient alternative; add it directly to the sauce towards the end. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and a lean protein choice in your “chicken broccoli ziti recipe”.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss cubed chicken with 15 mL (1 tbsp) olive oil and seasonings. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 340 g (12 oz) ziti pasta until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Blanch 450 g (1 lb) broccoli florets in lightly salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes. They should be vibrant green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice bath, then drain well.
4. In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, melt 60 g (1/4 cup) butter. Whisk in 60 g (1/2 cup) flour for 1-2 minutes until nutty. Gradually whisk in warmed milk and broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce visibly thickens. If your sauce seems too thin, continue to simmer uncovered for an extra minute or two until it coats a spoon.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in 180 g (1.5 cups) Parmesan, lemon zest, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper until creamy and smooth.
6. Add cooked ziti, blanched broccoli, and roasted chicken to the sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. This “chicken broccoli ziti recipe” is nearly ready!
7. In a small skillet, heat the remaining 15 mL (1 tbsp) olive oil. Add panko and sumac. Toast for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant.
8. Serve generous portions of the “chicken broccoli ziti recipe”. Garnish immediately with sumac-kissed breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a brilliant finish.

Inline Modifications for Diet Preferences:

• Low-carb: If using cauliflower florets instead of pasta, ensure chicken is cooked through before adding the cauliflower, reducing liquid slightly.
• High-protein: Add extra chicken or stir in a scoop of nutritional yeast for a protein boost.
• Family-friendly: For picky eaters, ensure broccoli is cooked until softer than tender-crisp, if preferred.

Troubleshooting Tips for Common Issues:

• Pasta too sticky or dry: Add a splash more broth or water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
• Chicken not cooked through: Ensure chicken pieces are small. Cook until no pink remains, roasting for a few extra minutes if needed.
• Sauce too thin: Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few additional minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken further.

On busy weeknights, I often prep the chicken and blanch the broccoli earlier in the day. This simple trick makes assembling this delicious “chicken broccoli ziti recipe” even faster when dinner time rolls around.

When to Enjoy Your Chicken Broccoli Ziti

This satisfying **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** fits seamlessly into various mealtime scenarios. It truly shines as a quick, hearty solution for busy weeknight dinners and transforms easily into packable, nutritious school and work lunches.

• Quick and satisfying weeknight dinners
• Packable, nutritious school and work lunches
• Comfort food for cozy family nights
• Potlucks or casual gatherings

Serve this comforting dish with:

• Warm garlic bread or crusty artisan bread
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
• A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers of your **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Value

This meal is a protein-packed powerhouse, perfect for active lifestyles and muscle recovery. It helps maintain a balanced diet with essential vegetables and carbohydrates, offering a quick healthy dinner solution for busy evenings. It’s also a fantastic, kid-approved way to get more green veggies into their diet, making it a truly family-friendly option.

This dish aligns with several popular lifestyle needs:

• Excellent for meal prep for weight loss with portioned servings
• One of the best protein recipes for family dinners
• Offers quick healthy dinners for busy weeknights
• Easily made gluten-free by swapping pasta

Fits Multiple Diet Patterns

Our **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** is quite versatile. It can be adapted for paleo-inspired meals by omitting pasta and focusing on chicken and broccoli, or made vegetarian/vegan with simple substitutions like plant-based chicken and dairy-free cheese.

Time & Budget Insights

Whip up this family favorite in under an hour without stress.

• Active Prep Time: ~15 minutes
• Cook Time: ~25 minutes
• Total Time: ~40 minutes

Approximate Cost Per Serving & Smart Saving Swaps

This **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** costs around $3-4 per serving, making it an economical choice for families. You can save even more by using store-brand pasta, buying chicken in bulk, and opting for frozen broccoli when fresh is pricey.

How Chicken Broccoli Ziti Can Be Meal-Prepped for the Week

Cook a double batch, then portion the **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** into individual containers. Refrigerate these for grab-and-go lunches and dinners, simplifying your week’s meal planning.

Ingredient Shopping & Premium Picks

You can find ingredients for this **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** at most standard supermarkets. Local farmers’ markets are excellent for fresh, seasonal produce, and specialty butcher shops offer higher quality chicken. For added convenience, consider online grocery delivery services.

Differences in Fresh vs. Frozen vs. Packaged

Fresh broccoli provides the best flavor and texture, but frozen broccoli is a convenient, budget-friendly alternative that works wonderfully. Choosing a high-quality imported ziti pasta can elevate the entire dish, creating a premium experience.

Organic Grocery Delivery, Specialty Stores, and Meal Kit Mentions

For a premium touch, consider sourcing organic chicken and broccoli from specialty stores or organic delivery services. While this isn’t a meal kit, it’s a dish that lends itself to high-quality ingredients sourced through such services.

Advanced Tips & Customizations

Elevate your **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** with these simple tricks.

• Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for visual appeal and a slight kick.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for brightness that cuts through the richness.
• For a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end. I often add a spoonful of pesto to my individual serving of chicken broccoli ziti for an extra layer of herby flavor.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes during the sautéing process.
• Lemon-Herb: Finish with lemon zest and fresh dill or basil.
• Creamy Mushroom: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic.

Allergy Swaps and Safe Alternatives

To make this **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a splash of unsweetened plant milk for creaminess. For those with sensitivities, gluten-free pasta is an excellent swap that maintains the dish’s integrity.

FAQs

Can I use this chicken broccoli ziti recipe for meal prep?

Yes, this **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** is excellent for meal prep. Cook a larger batch, portion it into airtight containers, and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days for quick meals throughout the week.

Is this chicken broccoli ziti recipe suitable for weight loss?

Absolutely! This **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** can be great for weight loss when portion-controlled and made with whole wheat pasta and plenty of fresh broccoli. Focus on lean protein and fiber for healthy eating.

What’s the best pasta substitute for chicken broccoli ziti?

For a low-carb option, cauliflower florets or zoodles are excellent choices. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free ziti pasta to suit various dietary needs in this **chicken broccoli ziti recipe**.

How long does cooked chicken broccoli ziti last in the fridge?

Cooked **chicken broccoli ziti** will last safely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. It’s perfect for enjoying as easy dinner ideas or lunches as leftovers.

Can I make chicken broccoli ziti dairy-free?

Yes, to make this **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** dairy-free, simply use a plant-based dairy-free parmesan cheese substitute. You can also add a splash of unsweetened plant milk for creaminess, ensuring a family-friendly twist.

What kind of chicken is best for chicken broccoli ziti?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** as they cook quickly and are lean. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor, but may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this **chicken broccoli ziti recipe**. Add it directly to the pot during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking with the chicken. No need to thaw beforehand; it cooks right into the sauce.

Conclusion

This **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** truly delivers on all fronts: it’s incredibly easy, wonderfully hearty, and perfectly versatile for any family meal. Enjoy the convenience of a quick, nutritious dinner that everyone will love. Pin this **chicken broccoli ziti recipe** for your next stress-free weeknight meal plan!

Print