If you’re craving a comforting, quick, and utterly crowd-pleasing dinner, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is about to become your new favorite go-to meal. Imagine tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all tossed in a creamy Parmesan sauce that’s just rich enough to feel special, but easy enough for any busy weeknight. This recipe is a true one-pan wonder, blending the familiar flavors you love with a hint of Italian flair, making it impossible not to go back for seconds…or thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Chicken and Broccoli Pasta has a job to do—whether it’s lending a velvety richness, a pop of color, or a zippy burst of flavor. Don’t worry, you’ll find these are mostly pantry staples, and each one helps build a dish that’s as balanced as it is irresistible.
- Pasta (12 ounces penne or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape; penne holds the creamy sauce in its tubes, while fettuccine wraps around the chicken and broccoli for luscious bites.
- Chicken (1 pound boneless skinless breasts): Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and soak up all the delicious seasoning.
- Broccoli (3 cups fresh florets): Adds color, crunch, and freshness, while keeping the dish vibrantly green.
- Olive Oil (3 tablespoons, divided): The foundation for sautéing everything and adding a subtle fruity flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Nothing beats the aroma and taste of freshly sautéed garlic in a creamy pasta!
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates the dreamy, rich sauce—swap for half-and-half if you want something lighter.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): Lends depth and a savory backbone to the sauce without making it too heavy.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup grated): Brings a nutty, salty note and helps thicken that luscious sauce.
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that infuses the chicken and sauce with Mediterranean warmth.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For a gentle heat—add more if you enjoy a spicy kick!
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Lemon Juice (from ½ lemon): A splash of juice brightens everything at the end, lifting the rich sauce.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness, color, and makes the dish look extra inviting!
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions until just al dente. For some multitasking magic, toss in the broccoli florets during the last three minutes of pasta cooking—this ensures they become perfectly tender-crisp without losing that inviting green color. Once ready, drain both the pasta and broccoli and set aside; they’ll be back soon for their encore in the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta and broccoli are working, season your chicken pieces well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Let it cook undisturbed at first to get a gorgeous golden sear, then stir and finish cooking for another 5–6 minutes until the pieces are cooked through and juicy. Remove and set aside so they don’t overcook while you build the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and drop in the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute until the kitchen smells irresistible—just be sure not to let the garlic brown. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir gently as the cheese melts into the sauce, creating that velvety texture that’s signature to Chicken and Broccoli Pasta.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now it’s time to bring the dish together! Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together so the pasta is completely coated and the broccoli and chicken are evenly distributed. Add the fresh lemon juice to boost all the flavors, then taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or black pepper if needed. Finish by removing the skillet from heat and get ready for the final flourish!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the top with a generous shower of freshly chopped parsley. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also brightens every bite. This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is best enjoyed piping hot, straight from the skillet to the table, where everyone can dig in family-style.
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Garnishes
You can never go wrong with a blizzard of extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. If you’re feeling fancy, add lemon zest on top for a zippy kick or a few twists of cracked black pepper just before serving—these touches really let the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta shine!
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or serve with garlic bread for those who love to soak up extra sauce. A roasted veggie medley or a crisp Caesar salad will complement the creamy flavors without overpowering the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in shallow bowls for a restaurant-style feel, or pile it high on a big platter for a family meal that encourages sharing. For date night, transfer portions into individual gratin dishes, top with extra cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden finish that guests will swoon over.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Let your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days; just be sure to store the pasta and sauce together so the flavors continue to meld and stay delicious.
Freezing
While cream-based sauces can sometimes lose their silky texture in the freezer, you can freeze Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for up to two months in a well-sealed, freezer-safe container. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge and know that the sauce may need a quick stir and a splash of extra cream or milk when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This helps revive the creamy texture without drying out the chicken or overcooking the broccoli. The microwave works too—just cover loosely and stir halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, making this already speedy recipe even faster. Simply shred or chop the chicken and add it in with the pasta and broccoli.
What other vegetables work well in this recipe?
While broccoli is a classic partner, you can easily swap in or add vegetables like asparagus, spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. All bring their own flair and blend beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Is it okay to use a different pasta shape?
Yes, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand! Penne and fettuccine are traditional here, but shells, rotini, or even spaghetti work just as well for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta. The most important thing is to cook it al dente so it holds up in the rich sauce.
How do I make this dish lighter?
If you’d prefer a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use whole wheat pasta to lighten things up, without sacrificing the cozy, comforting vibe of Chicken and Broccoli Pasta.
Can I make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta ahead for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish tastes fantastic reheated, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in lunch-size containers, and simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk for a comforting ready-made lunch or dinner.
Final Thoughts
Dinners don’t get much better than a bowl of Chicken and Broccoli Pasta—hearty, creamy, and full of vibrant flavor in every bite. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself, this recipe promises comfort and satisfaction every time. Give it a try and discover just how easy and joyful homemade pasta nights can be!
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a creamy and flavorful Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal. This Italian-American inspired recipe combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente pasta in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce with a hint of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Broccoli:
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, adding broccoli in the last 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season and cook chicken in olive oil until golden. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic, add cream, broth, Parmesan, and spices. Simmer.
- Combine: Toss chicken, pasta, and broccoli in the sauce. Add lemon juice.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Consider using rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Enhance with mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about ¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
