Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

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If you’re anything like me, you crave weeknight dinners that are as comforting as they are quick. That’s exactly why I whipped up this creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta — and let me tell you, it was a hit. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce came together so effortlessly, it’s now a staple in my kitchen. Every bite reminded me why simple ingredients can create the most memorable meals.

What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. I was able to prepare it in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when I don’t want to compromise on flavor. The broccoli added such a wonderful freshness, balancing out the richness of the sauce beautifully. And watching my family go back for seconds was all the confirmation I needed — this dish is a keeper.

I’ve made many pasta dishes over the years, but this one stands out because of how well it marries creaminess with a pop of vegetable brightness. If you’re a fan of easy pasta recipes, you’ll also enjoy my creamy beef and shells recipe and stovetop creamy ground beef pasta, which follow the same comforting yet simple approach. But for now, let’s talk about why this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta deserves a spot in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This dish is more than just a pasta recipe — it’s a full meal in one bowl. You’ll love the way the juicy chicken mingles with perfectly cooked broccoli and tender pasta, all tied together by a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite. It’s versatile enough to please picky eaters, while still feeling wholesome and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or looking for a quick meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to win you over.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts are the star here, providing protein and heartiness that makes this dish a main course. Broccoli brings color, crunch, and a bit of nutrition that keeps the pasta from feeling too heavy. Pasta of your choice serves as the comforting base that soaks up all the sauce. Garlic adds depth and aroma that permeates the whole dish, while butter and cream create the rich, silky sauce. Parmesan cheese finishes it all off with a salty, nutty punch that elevates each bite. A touch of olive oil helps brown the chicken and keep everything from sticking, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper rounds out the seasoning beautifully.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them quickly. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and a bit of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt some butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine, and let it simmer gently. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and sliced chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well-coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate up your creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper if desired, and serve warm.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is wonderfully flexible. You can swap the chicken breasts for boneless thighs if you prefer darker meat, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option. Broccoli can be replaced with asparagus, spinach, or peas if that’s what you have on hand. For a lighter sauce, try half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or go dairy-free by using a plant-based cream alternative and vegan Parmesan. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes — penne, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta all work well.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but I like to serve it with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread on the side is a great idea for those who can’t resist a little extra carb comfort. If you’re serving guests, a chilled glass of white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture, as the pasta tends to absorb the sauce over time. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

FAQs

How can I make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta, chicken, and sauce separately, then store them in the fridge. Combine and reheat just before serving for best results.

Can I freeze Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

It’s possible, though the creamy sauce may separate slightly when thawed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and reheat gently.

What’s the best pasta to use for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work best as they hold the sauce well and are easy to toss with the chicken and broccoli.

How do I keep Chicken and Broccoli Pasta from drying out?

Be sure not to overcook the pasta, and save a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce when tossing everything together.

Can I make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta spicy?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle on top before serving for a little heat.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, you might also love my creamy ground beef alfredo pasta for another rich and satisfying dinner idea. It delivers the same creamy goodness with a different twist, perfect for switching things up while keeping that cozy vibe.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime you need a quick and comforting dinner idea. Sharing is caring — feel free to send the link to your friends or post it on your favorite social media platform so everyone can enjoy this delicious, easy recipe. You’ll be glad you kept it handy for those busy weeknights!

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