Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta (Printable Version)

# What You’ll Need:

→ Pasta & Vegetables

01 - 12 oz (¾ lb) pasta (penne or rotini)
02 - 2 cups broccoli florets

→ Sauce Base

03 - 2 tbsp butter
04 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
05 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
06 - 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
07 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

→ Protein & Seasoning

08 - 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (about 8 oz)
09 - ½ tsp garlic powder
10 - ½ tsp onion powder
11 - ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
12 - ¼ tsp black pepper

→ Optional Garnish

13 - Chopped parsley
14 - Grated Parmesan

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to the package directions. During the last 3 minutes, add broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly.
03 - Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 2–3 minutes).
04 - Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
05 - Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in mozzarella until melted and creamy. Add the cooked chicken, stirring to warm through.
06 - Add the cooked pasta and broccoli back into the sauce. Toss gently until everything is coated.
07 - Transfer to bowls or a serving dish. Optionally, top with chopped parsley or Parmesan.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Ensure the sauce is whisked constantly to prevent lumps forming in the roux.
02 - The broccoli should retain a slight crunch for best texture.