CHICKEN BROCCOLI PASTA🐓🥦

Today, I made Chicken Broccoli Pasta for my 2- and 3-year-old nieces, and they loved it! 🍝 This dish is perfect for picky eaters and little ones because it’s balanced, easy to eat, and flavorful. I paired it with oranges and applesauce pouches for a complete, kid-approved meal.

Regarding servings, pairing this pasta with garlic bread and apple sauce is to die for. I made garlic bread that tasted like a light garlic spread. I didn’t want my nieces to be overwhelmed with garlic oil flavor. By the way, I used olive oil instead of butter. Why? It was important, to me, to limit the amount of dairy I incorporated into this meal. This meal leaves your kids decently full and satisfied. Trust me, my nieces were so happy and eventually took a good nap💤.

                                      Chicken Broccoli Pasta                       ⏱️Total Time: 40 minutes     🍴Yield: 16 kid servings

INGREDIENTS

Meat:

• 1 lb ground chicken

Meat Seasoning:

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

• 1 tsp salt-free seasoning blend

• Salt and white pepper, to taste

Pasta:

• 1 box bow tie pasta

Other Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)

• 1/4 cup finely diced onion

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups chopped broccoli florets

• 1/4 cup grated DF Parmesan cheese or Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

• Boil the bow tie pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2️⃣ Prepare the Chicken

• Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and season with paprika, cumin, salt-free seasoning, nutritional yeast, onion powder, salt, and white pepper.

• Cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked, then remove it from the skillet and set aside. *until it's no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes) or reaches an internal temperature of 165°F if you're unsure.

3️⃣ Cook the Broccoli

• In the same skillet, add the chopped broccoli and a splash of chicken broth. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

4️⃣ Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil or butter. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

• Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring constantly to make a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps.

• Add the DF or D Parmesan Cheese let the sauce thicken, about 3–4 minutes.

5️⃣ Combine

• Add the cooked chicken, broccoli, and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, 1 tbsp at a time, to reach your desired consistency.

6️⃣ Serve

• Plate the pasta and pair it with sliced oranges and applesauce pouches for a kid-friendly, balanced meal!

Mya’s Notes 📝:

• Broccoli Timing: Cooking the broccoli separately ensures it stays tender-crisp rather than mushy.

• Sauce Flavor: Adding DF or D Parmesan to the sauce enhances creaminess. As kids grow, you can adjust the creaminess by adding a splash of DF or D milk or even a cream-based sauce if they’re ready for richer flavors. It’s all about finding the right balance for their age and preferences!

• Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce and ensures everything is well-coated.

What Makes This Toddler-Friendly Pasta a Winner? 🥦🍗

💪 Ground Chicken:
The ultimate lean protein for growing muscles and all-day energy.

🌳 Broccoli:
Tiny trees = big benefits! Packed with vitamins and fiber to boost strong bones and happy tummies.

🍝 Bow Tie Pasta:
Carbs = energy! (Plus, it’s a shape even picky eaters can’t resist!)

🧀DF or D Parmesan Cheese:
Creamy and calcium-rich for strong bones and little smiles.

🧄 Onions & Garlic:
Natural flavor boosters with hidden health perks like antioxidants and immune support.

🥣 Chicken Broth:
Keeps the pasta saucy and delicious without unnecessary fats. (Low-sodium = parent-approved!)

Pro Tip for Parents:

As your kiddos grow, amp up the creaminess with a splash of milk or more cheese! Serve with a side of fruit like oranges or applesauce for a complete, balanced meal.

Nice To Meet You!

Hi, I’m Mya, and I’m passionate about GOOD FOOD and GOOD HEALTH! 🌿
I started Good Eats Nutrition to help people enjoy delicious meals that are as nutritious as they are satisfying. With a background in nutrition and a love for experimenting in the kitchen, I create recipes that fit real life—simple, wholesome, and full of flavor. Whether you’re here for meal ideas, healthy living tips, or just to chat about food, I’m so glad you stopped by. Let’s make eating well easy and fun together!

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