Name: One-Pot Thai Peanut Chicken Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 cups broccoli florets; 8.8 ounces penne pasta; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup Thai peanut sauce

If you’re on the lookout for a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor yet comes together in no time, look no further than One-Pot Thai Peanut Chicken Broccoli. This dish combines succulent chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente penne pasta, all bathed in a rich and creamy Thai peanut sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience for your taste buds that captures the essence of Thai cuisine without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

With its delightful combination of textures and flavors, this dish is sure to make a memorable addition to your recipe repertoire. The freshness of the broccoli adds a nutritious crunch, while the peanut sauce infuses everything with its nutty sweetness. Plus, the fact that it’s a one-pot wonder means less time cleaning up, allowing you to spend more precious moments with your loved ones. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this easy yet delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Thai Peanut Chicken Broccoli

This recipe not only satisfies your cravings, but it also offers a range of advantages that make it a favorite:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy individuals and families.
Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot reduces the hassle of washing multiple dishes.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chicken and broccoli, it’s loaded with protein and essential vitamins.
Flexibility: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of Thai peanut sauce and fresh ingredients makes this dish irresistibly tasty.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you embark on this culinary adventure, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring you have a large pot or dutch oven, which will accommodate all ingredients comfortably while allowing them to simmer together for maximum flavor.
Next, measure out your ingredients ahead of time; this will streamline the cooking process and help you avoid any last-minute scrambles. Having cooking utensils like a wooden spoon or spatula handy will also make stirring much easier.
For this recipe, no special tools are required beyond your regular cookware, making it accessible for all skill levels. Just ensure you have a cutting board and a sharp knife for preparing the chicken and broccoli, and you’re all set!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare One-Pot Thai Peanut Chicken Broccoli:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups broccoli florets
8.8 ounces penne pasta
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup Thai peanut sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In your large pot, start by placing the chicken cubes into the bottom. This layer will cook nicely as the pot heats up. Next, add the broccoli florets on top of the chicken, followed by the penne pasta. Finally, pour in the chicken broth. Make sure to distribute everything evenly to ensure consistent cooking.

Step 2: Cook to Perfection

Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer while leaving the pot uncovered. Stir occasionally, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors from the chicken and broccoli. Continue cooking until the pasta reaches an al dente texture, usually about 18 to 20 minutes, and the liquid is mostly reduced.

Step 3: Finish with Peanut Sauce

Once the pasta has cooked perfectly, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the Thai peanut sauce, ensuring that everything is well-coated and the sauce is evenly distributed. This final step adds a creamy, rich texture that brings all the ingredients together. Serve immediately for the best experience while the meal is hot and aromatic.

Variations

One-Pot Thai Peanut Chicken Broccoli is versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your preferences:

Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a different protein-packed option.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for additional flavor and nutritional benefits.
Spices: For a kick of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the peanut sauce.

Cooking Notes

Ensure not to overcook the pasta to maintain its firm texture; stir occasionally while cooking.
If using frozen broccoli, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid mushiness.
Feel free to prepare extra peanut sauce on the side for those who love a little extra flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with freshly squeezed lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Pair with a crunchy salad on the side to complement the richness of the dish.

Tips

To enhance the dish’s presentation, garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.
For an even creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of coconut milk along with the peanut sauce.
Cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the residual heat.
Make sure your chicken is properly cooked by cutting a piece open to check that it’s no longer pink inside.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 700mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated, making it great for meal prep.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How spicy is the peanut sauce?

The peanut sauce is generally mild, but you can adjust the spice level by adding hot sauce or red pepper flakes as desired.

Conclusion

One-Pot Thai Peanut Chicken Broccoli is not just a meal; it’s a nourishing experience that brings Thai flavors right into your kitchen. With its ease of preparation, delightful taste, and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends. By trying different variations, you can make this dish uniquely yours, ensuring it never gets boring. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts on this recipe or any modifications you try; we’d love to hear from you. Happy cooking!