If you are on the lookout for a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and a burst of fresh green goodness all in one plate, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is going to be your new favorite. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant broccoli all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce that hits just the right note of creamy indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or whipping up something special for friends, this recipe offers a delightful balance of savory taste and wholesome ingredients that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish is how straightforward the ingredients list is, yet each element plays an essential role in shaping the texture, color, and overall deliciousness of the meal. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to pull off this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe with ease and flavor.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or preferred choice): Provides the perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce and offer a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a vibrant green color and a refreshing crunch that complements the richness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps cook the chicken to golden perfection while adding subtle richness.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: The main protein that makes the dish hearty and fulfilling.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant depth that elevates the sauce to the next level.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, creamy texture that this pasta is famous for.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Balances the heaviness of the cream and adds savory notes.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs for extra flavor complexity.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat if you want a bit of a spicy twist.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every component perfectly.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, colorful touch to brighten up the finished dish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last two minutes, toss in the broccoli florets so they cook alongside the pasta and retain their bright green color and just-right crunch. Drain them together and set aside—this step ensures the broccoli won’t be overdone and blends beautifully with the pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your seasoned chicken pieces and cook them until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, about five to seven minutes. The key is to get a nice sear on the chicken—it locks in the juices and adds a lovely texture contrast. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds—you don’t want it to brown too much or it will turn bitter. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Toss in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and if you fancy a bit of warmth, red pepper flakes. Let this beautiful mixture simmer gently for three to four minutes until it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon, creating that irresistible creamy texture.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Time to bring it all together! Return the golden chicken pieces to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly in the luscious sauce. Then add the drained pasta and broccoli, tossing gently so every bite is loaded with creamy goodness and vibrant veggies. Allow this mix to simmer for another two minutes, letting all the flavors meld and marry perfectly.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove your skillet from the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley all over. This final touch adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that balances the richness of the sauce beautifully. Serve immediately, and prepare to enjoy a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the star garnish here, but you can also sprinkle on some extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. A few crushed red pepper flakes can be added at the table for those who crave an extra hint of spice.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices also make great companions, perfect for sopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-style presentation, plate the pasta neatly with the chicken and broccoli on top, then drizzle some sauce around the edges and sprinkle chopped parsley for an elegant touch. Or serve it family-style right from the skillet to keep things cozy and communal. Either way, this dish is sure to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, so it may be a bit thicker when you reheat it.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but because it contains cream and cooked pasta, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to one month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently until warmed through, so the chicken stays tender and the broccoli retains texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine work wonderfully, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Just make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly to keep it al dente.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a lower-fat milk with a bit of flour to thicken. Keep in mind it won’t be as rich, but still delicious and creamy.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water can be used, though broth adds extra flavor that enhances the sauce significantly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply skip the chicken and add more broccoli or other veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
How do I keep broccoli crisp in this dish?
Adding broccoli during the last two minutes of pasta cooking time is key to keeping it tender but still crisp. Overcooking will cause it to lose its vibrant color and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you want a meal that delivers comfort, freshness, and creamy indulgence all at once, you really owe it to yourself to try this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that’s easy to make yet impresses with every bite. So preheat your stove, gather those simple ingredients, and get ready to feast on something truly delicious and satisfying!
Print
Creamy 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
Description
A creamy and comforting Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, and al dente pasta tossed in a rich Parmesan cream sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and a hint of red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Pasta & Vegetables
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or preferred choice)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Protein & Seasonings
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Liquids & Dairy
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta & Broccoli: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water to soften slightly.
- Drain & Set Aside: Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to combine all flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy sauce. Then add the drained pasta and broccoli, tossing everything together to evenly distribute the sauce and ingredients.
- Meld Flavors: Cook the combined mixture for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Serve & Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine that hold sauce well.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Freshly grated Parmesan provides better flavor and melting than pre-grated versions.
- Make sure not to overcook broccoli to maintain some crunch and vibrant color.
