30-Minute Honey Dijon Chicken Fettuccine
A satisfying one-bowl pasta dish featuring tender fettuccine tossed with crisp broccoli florets, shredded chicken breast, and a tangy honey Dijon dressing. The creamy, slightly sweet sauce coats every strand of pasta while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you want something wholesome and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. This lighter take on creamy pasta uses fat-free dressing and minimal oil, making it a healthier option that doesn't sacrifice taste.
Ingredients
- 9 ounce refrigerated fresh fettuccine, cut in half
- 4 cups fresh broccoli
- ⅓ cup fat-free honey-dijon salad dressing
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 10 ½ ounce cooked boneless skinless chicken breast, shredded
- fresh ground black pepper(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Cut the fettuccine in half
- 2
Cook the fettuccine according to package directions without adding salt or fat
- 3
Add the broccoli to the pasta during the last 3 minutes of cooking
- 4
Drain the pasta and broccoli well and place in a large bowl
- 5
Mix the salad dressing, dijon mustard, olive oil, and minced garlic in a small bowl
- 6
Pour the dressing over the pasta and broccoli mixture
- 7
Add the shredded chicken and gently toss everything together
- 8
Sprinkle with fresh ground black pepper to taste
Tips
Don't overcook the broccoli - it should be bright green and still have a slight bite when done.
Make sure to drain the pasta and broccoli thoroughly to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or quickly poach chicken breasts in seasoned water.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can be made up to 1 day ahead and served cold as a pasta salad.
Serve warm immediately after tossing, or at room temperature as a pasta salad.
Common Mistakes
Don't add the broccoli too early or it will become mushy and lose its vibrant color.
Make sure pasta is well-drained to avoid a watery final dish.
Substitutions
Use same cooking method but check package directions
Mix together before using
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, but add it during the last 2 minutes of cooking since frozen broccoli cooks faster. Thaw and drain well first to prevent excess water.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after a day as the dressing has time to penetrate the pasta.
Can I make this dairy-free?
This recipe is already dairy-free as written, using fat-free honey Dijon dressing instead of cream-based sauces.