Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that won't break the calorie bank? Look no further than this 1 package (255 g) Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken, which comes in at just 260 calories per serving.

In addition to being low in calories, this tasty pasta dish also packs a punch of macronutrients. With 32 grams of carbohydrates, 11 grams of protein, and 8 grams of fat, it's a balanced and filling option for any meal of the day.

In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of this dish, from its nutritional value to its versatility in cooking and serving options.

Calories and Macronutrient Content

As mentioned, Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken is a great option for those watching their calorie intake. With just 260 calories per serving, it's a satisfying and filling meal that won't weigh you down. In addition to being low calorie, this dish also has a balanced macronutrient profile. With 32 grams of carbohydrates, 11 grams of protein, and 8 grams of fat, it's a good option for anyone looking to maintain or build muscle while staying within their daily calorie goals. Overall, the macronutrient content of this dish makes it a smart choice for anyone looking to meet their daily nutritional needs without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Ingredients

To make Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken, you'll need a few simple ingredients that you may already have on hand. These include rigatoni pasta, broccoli, chicken breasts, heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The recipe is easily customizable to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions - for example, you could use whole wheat pasta instead of regular, or substitute dairy-free cream for the heavy cream if you're lactose intolerant. Overall, the ingredient list is straightforward and flexible, making it easy to whip up a batch of this tasty pasta whenever the mood strikes.

Preparation Instructions

Making Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken is easy and straightforward. Start by cooking the rigatoni according to the package directions, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat, and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Add garlic and sauté for another minute, then remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Next, add the broccoli to the same pan and cook for a few minutes until tender. Then, add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and creamy. Finally, add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the pan, stir to combine, and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Taste Profile

Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that's sure to please even picky eaters. The creamy sauce is rich and decadent, while the broccoli adds a fresh, slightly bitter note to balance it out. The chicken adds a protein boost and a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients, while the rigatoni pasta is hearty and filling. Overall, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you're a fan of creamy pasta dishes or just looking for a quick and easy meal that won't disappoint, Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken is a must-try recipe.

Vegetable and Protein Content

One of the best things about Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken is that it's chock-full of nutritious ingredients. The broccoli provides a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants, while the chicken offers a hearty dose of protein to keep you full and satisfied. Plus, the heavy cream and parmesan cheese give the dish a rich and decadent flavor that will make you forget you're even eating vegetables. Overall, this dish is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition without sacrificing taste or satisfaction. By incorporating this dish into your meal rotation, you can feel good about nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients while still indulging in your favorite comfort foods.

Serving Size

The serving size for Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken is one package, or 255 grams. This amount provides 260 calories, 32 grams of carbohydrates, 11 grams of protein, and 8 grams of fat. Of course, you can adjust the serving size to meet your personal needs or preferences - for example, you could split the package into two smaller servings or pair it with a side salad for a more filling meal. Overall, the serving size is flexible and easily customizable, making it easy to fit into your daily calorie and macronutrient goals.

Alternative Cooking Methods

While the recipe for Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken is simple and straightforward, there are a few alternative cooking methods you can try to mix things up. For example, you could roast the broccoli in the oven before adding it to the dish for a crispy, caramelized flavor. Alternatively, you could use a slow cooker to cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then add the cooked pasta at the end to warm through. This method is great if you're short on time or prefer hands-off cooking. Overall, there are many ways to customize this dish to suit your tastes and cooking style - feel free to experiment and find what works best for you!

Possible Accompaniments

Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken is a stand-alone dish that's filling and delicious on its own. However, if you want to round out the meal with some additional flavors and textures, there are a few accompaniments that work great. For example, you could serve the pasta alongside a slice of garlic bread or a side salad with a balsamic vinaigrette. Alternatively, you could add some sliced cherry tomatoes or chopped fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley) on top of the dish for a pop of color and flavor. Ultimately, the possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing this dish with complementary flavors and textures - so don't be afraid to get creative and try something new!

Dietary Restrictions

If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, you may be wondering if Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken is a suitable meal option. The good news is that this dish can easily be adapted to accommodate a variety of dietary needs. For example, if you're gluten-free, you could use a gluten-free pasta option instead of rigatoni. If you're dairy-free, you could use a plant-based cream alternative or omit the cheese entirely. And if you're vegetarian, you could swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms to get a protein boost. Overall, this dish is flexible and versatile enough to accommodate a variety of dietary needs and preferences - so don't hesitate to make it your own and customize it to your liking!

Health Benefits

Finally, let's take a closer look at some of the health benefits associated with Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken. As previously mentioned, this dish is relatively low in calories but still packs a punch of macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fat). Additionally, the broccoli in this dish provides a variety of nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. Research suggests that cruciferous vegetables like broccoli may also have cancer-fighting properties. Overall, by incorporating Creamy Rigatoni with Broccoli & Chicken into your meal rotation, you can enjoy a tasty and satisfying dish while also reaping the many nutritional benefits it has to offer.