Cheesy Garlic-y Chicken Ziti With Broccoli

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  • A Symphony of Flavors

    • Imagine a dish where the rustic charm of Italian cuisine intertwines with the vibrant spirit of Mediterranean flavors. A symphony of tender chicken, al dente ziti, and crisp-tender broccoli, all bathed in a luscious garlic and olive oil sauce. This is Ziti di Pollo, a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients.

    Ingredients:

    Chicken Broccoli Ziti - Everyday Family Eats
    Chicken Broccoli Ziti – Everyday Family Eats

    Image Source: everydayfamilyeats.com

    1 pound ziti pasta

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

    • Preparation:

    1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    2. Prep the Veggies: While the pasta cooks, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
    3. Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
    4. Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
    5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked ziti, broccoli, and cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat with the garlic and oil sauce.
    6. Finish the Dish: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

    Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

    Serving Suggestions:

    Aromatic bread: A crusty loaf of ciabatta or sourdough bread is the perfect companion to soak up the flavorful sauce.

  • Fresh Salad: A simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
  • A Glass of Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors.

    • Cultural Influences:

    Italian Cuisine: The ziti pasta, a staple of Italian cuisine, provides the foundation for this dish.

  • Mediterranean Diet: The abundance of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs reflects the heart of the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits and delicious flavors.

  • Ziti di Pollo is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of life. It’s a testament to the power of culinary traditions to bring people together and nourish both body and soul.

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