Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both satisfying and loaded with vibrant flavor, look no further than Chicken and Broccoli Pasta. This creamy, comforting dish brings together juicy bites of seared chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta wrapped in a rich, Parmesan-kissed sauce. It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet special enough to serve guests, and you’ll love how the textures and colors come together in every forkful. Whether you’re new to pasta-making or a seasoned cook, this is one meal you’ll reach for again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chicken and Broccoli Pasta lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and giving the finished dish its irresistible appeal—be sure to use fresh, quality ingredients for the most delicious results!

• Pasta (12 ounces penne or fettuccine): A sturdy noodle is perfect for capturing the silky sauce—choose your favorite shape for extra appeal.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces): Lean and meaty, chicken soaks up seasonings and creates hearty bites in every serving.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds flavor while helping the chicken brown and stay juicy.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Just the right amount to infuse the sauce with mouthwatering aroma.
• Broccoli florets (3 cups): Brightens the dish with color, crunch, and wholesome green flavor.
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Forms a savory base for the creamy sauce and keeps everything luscious.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Delivers the rich, velvety texture you crave in pasta dishes like this.
• Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Brings salty, nutty depth to the finished meal—don’t skip it!
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Just enough to make all the flavors pop.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds gentle warmth and a little bite.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): For a welcome hint of heat, add to taste.
• Chopped parsley (optional): A sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful and tasty finish, if you like.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. Just before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets for the last two minutes. This clever little step makes the broccoli perfectly tender while saving you time and an extra pot! Drain them together and set aside so they’re ready to soak up all the saucy goodness later.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, and then add them to the pan. Let them sizzle for about 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally so they cook evenly and develop that irresistible golden color. Once your chicken is cooked through, things are smelling amazing and you’re ready for the next burst of flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic for Extra Flavor

Now, sprinkle in the minced garlic. Toss everything together and let it cook for just a minute—you want garlic that smells mellow and delicious, not burnt or harsh. This step’s quicker than you’d expect, but it makes all the difference for your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The broth will pick up all the tasty brown bits left from the chicken, laying a savory foundation for the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add in the red pepper flakes if you’re a fan of a little zip! Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. It will thicken slightly and become silky and luscious—the part you’ll want to swipe with bread later!

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Add your just-cooked pasta and broccoli into the skillet, and use tongs or a big spoon to gently toss everything until well coated. Let it all heat through for 1 to 2 minutes—the sauce will cling to the pasta and veggies, wrapping every bit in creamy goodness. Take a moment to taste and adjust seasoning if you’d like, then you’re ready to serve your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta hot and fresh!

How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Garnishes

Whether you like to keep things simple or go all out, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley brings beautiful color and a pop of freshness to every bowl. You could also add more grated Parmesan on top for extra savoriness or a light dusting of lemon zest for a burst of brightness. If you love a little spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes as a final flourish.

Side Dishes

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta shines as the star of the table, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some pillowy garlic bread to mop up the creamy sauce. Roasted veggies, a tangy vinaigrette, or even a glass of chilled white wine make for an amazing weeknight meal or dinner party lineup.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Chicken and Broccoli Pasta family-style in a big, beautiful platter—let everyone dig in and help themselves. Or, if you’re aiming to impress, twirl the pasta into neat little nests on each plate, then top with chicken and broccoli and finish with your favorite garnishes. Individual oven-safe ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets also make for a charming presentation, especially for dinner parties or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), be sure to let the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. You’ll find the flavors continue to meld and develop, making it almost as tasty as the first night!

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for meal prepping or busy weeks. Place cooled portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags. The sauce may separate ever so slightly when thawed, but a gentle heat and good stir brings it right back together. For best texture, enjoy within two months.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or cream to help loosen the sauce before warming on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir gently until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave also works—just cover the dish with a damp paper towel and use medium power, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are classic choices for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, you can use any pasta shape you love. Rotini, rigatoni, or even spaghetti work beautifully—just adjust the cook time as needed.

Is there a way to lighten up the sauce?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter sauce. You can also reduce the amount of Parmesan or use a blend with part-skim mozzarella if you want to cut down on fat while keeping creaminess.

Can I make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble the dish up to the point of combining everything in the skillet, then let it cool and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to bring back that luscious sauce texture.

What proteins can I substitute for chicken?

Shrimp is a fantastic swap for chicken—just cook them until pink and opaque, which usually takes only a few minutes. You can also use sliced turkey, rotisserie chicken, or keep it vegetarian by swapping in extra broccoli or sautéed mushrooms.

How do I prevent the broccoli from overcooking?

For perfectly crisp-tender broccoli, toss it into the boiling pasta water just for the last two minutes of cooking time. This method ensures the broccoli stays bright green and just tender enough without turning mushy.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Chicken and Broccoli Pasta enough for anyone looking to impress with minimal fuss. Each bite delivers a lovely balance of creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and fresh-tasting broccoli, making it the kind of recipe you’ll want to bookmark and revisit often. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll earn a spot in your weeknight rotation—and maybe even become one of your own family favorites!

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