Get ready to fall head-over-heels for creamy, cozy comfort food with this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta. Tender pasta, golden chicken, and fresh broccoli unite in a luscious, cheesy sauce that’s irresistibly delicious and weeknight-friendly. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a hearty Italian-inspired dinner, this dish outshines takeout any day and always disappears fast at the table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of everyday staples, you can whip up a Chicken and Broccoli Pasta that’s both deeply flavorful and beautifully balanced. Each ingredient has its role, from building the creamy sauce to adding pops of color and crunch.
- 12 oz pasta: Penne or fettuccine work best—choose your favorite shape for great sauce-hugging texture.
- 1 pound chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into strips or bites for quick, even cooking and juicy bites.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: This veggie brings vibrant color and crisp-tender freshness to balance the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding a layer of fruity richness.
- 3 garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the sauce with aromatic depth—fresh really makes a difference here!
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to a dreamy, velvety sauce; half-and-half can be swapped in for something lighter.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory backbone and keeps the sauce from getting too thick.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Choose freshly grated, if possible, for a salty, nutty punch in your sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Instantly brings those classic herby notes that scream “comfort food.”
- Salt and pepper to taste: Crucial for bringing all the flavors together—taste as you go for perfection!
- Optional: red pepper flakes and lemon zest: The perfect finish if you want a kick of spice or a citrusy lift.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook your penne or fettuccine according to the package directions for perfect al dente texture. Toss the broccoli florets in for the last two minutes of cooking—this method quickly blanches them, keeping their color vivid and their texture just right. Drain both together and set aside while you focus on building your flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken strips generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the oil’s shimmering, add the chicken and cook until the pieces are golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate—those caramelized bits left in the pan are flavor gold!
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium, then toss the minced garlic into the same skillet. Let it sizzle just until fragrant, about 30 seconds (don’t let it burn!). Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Let the mixture bubble gently for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly, then stir in the Parmesan until silky-smooth. Your kitchen will smell amazing—trust me!
Step 4: Combine Everything
Toss the cooked chicken, drained pasta, and broccoli right back into that dreamy sauce. Using tongs or a big spoon, mix well until everything’s deliciously coated and warmed through—about two more minutes on the stovetop does the trick. Taste for seasoning and add extra salt or pepper if needed.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
All that’s left is the fun part! Spritz with fresh lemon zest or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a zippy finish. Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta hot, and watch how quickly your friends and family dig in!
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Garnishes
A vibrant sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dusting of extra Parmesan, or a pinch of red pepper flakes brings even more flavor and eye-appeal to each serving. Lemon zest also adds a burst of brightness that beautifully cuts through the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
Pairing this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness perfectly. Crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette is always welcome to soak up those last luscious drops of sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, try swirling the pasta into individual bowls and topping each with an artful pile of golden chicken and verdant broccoli. Or, serve family-style in a big dish, letting everyone dig in. Add roasted cherry tomatoes or a few toasted pine nuts on top for a pop of color and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to three days—making tomorrow’s lunch or dinner incredibly easy and tasty.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. The sauce may separate a bit once thawed, but a good stir during reheating usually brings it right back together. Try to enjoy within two months for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently so everything warms evenly, and don’t overheat to keep the chicken juicy and the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Absolutely! You can swap in half-and-half or even a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of flour for a lighter sauce. The result will be just a bit less rich but still delicious.
What pasta shapes work best for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?
Penne and fettuccine are both excellent choices because they hold the creamy sauce and hearty ingredients well. Feel free to use rotini, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta to suit your needs.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes. Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll still have a fantastic, satisfying meal.
How do I keep my broccoli bright green and crisp-tender?
Drop the florets into the pasta water just for the last two minutes of cooking. This blanches them perfectly without overcooking, locking in both color and crunch for your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids tend to love the cheesy sauce and tender chicken, and broccoli often disappears without complaint when tucked into pasta. For spice-sensitive eaters, skip the red pepper flakes on top.
Final Thoughts
If you crave a fuss-free, flavor-packed meal that makes weeknights special, give this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta a spot in your rotation. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles and second helpings, no matter the crowd—so gather your ingredients and treat yourself to creamy pasta perfection tonight!
Print
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a comforting and creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and al dente pasta are coated in a decadent Parmesan cream sauce, creating a flavorful Italian-American fusion.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips or bite-sized pieces)
Broccoli:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes and lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions. Add broccoli during last 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Season chicken and cook in olive oil until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make Sauce: Cook garlic, add cream and broth. Simmer, then add Parmesan until smooth.
- Combine: Return chicken and pasta to skillet, toss in sauce. Simmer briefly. Adjust seasoning. Garnish and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
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