Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is a hearty and satisfying one-bowl meal that brings together tender pieces of seared chicken, al dente pasta, and crisp-tender broccoli tossed in a rich, velvety sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights and cozy family dinners alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is beloved for its balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and carbs in a single, flavorful dish. The creamy sauce coats every bite without feeling heavy, and the vibrant broccoli adds freshness and texture. Best of all, it’s quick to make, customizable, and appeals to both kids and adults.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs

• Penne pasta (or pasta of choice)

• Fresh broccoli florets

• Olive oil or butter

• Garlic, minced

• Heavy cream

• Chicken broth or stock

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F or 74°C). Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add a little more oil or butter if needed, then sauté the garlic until fragrant.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Stir in the grated Parmesan and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Slice or dice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan. Add the drained pasta and broccoli.

7. Toss everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.

• Substitute broccoli with spinach, kale, or peas.

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

• Replace cream with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.

• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for added depth of flavor.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is also possible but may slightly alter texture.

• Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Add it directly to the boiling pasta water in the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

What pasta shapes work best?

Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold the creamy sauce well and mix easily with the chicken and broccoli.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to maintain the creaminess of the sauce.

Is there a way to make this healthier?

Use low-fat cream, whole grain pasta, and lean chicken breast. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving alternative.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, whole milk thickened with a bit of flour, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cream. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and stir frequently.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini make excellent additions to the dish.

Will this work with shrimp instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp is a great substitute. Cook shrimp until just pink and then continue with the recipe as directed.

How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?

Cook pasta just until al dente and immediately drain to stop the cooking process. Avoid letting it sit in hot water.

Conclusion

Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is a versatile, satisfying dish that brings together familiar flavors in a rich and creamy sauce. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, it’s the ideal meal for a busy night or a cozy dinner. Whether served fresh or as leftovers, it remains a

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favorite comfort food for all ages.