If you are craving a meal that brings comfort, richness, and a burst of flavor all in one dish, this Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. It perfectly balances tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and luscious cheese sauce that hugs every piece of pasta. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend treat, this recipe delivers a satisfying medley of creamy, garlicky goodness that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but truly essential to building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish shine. Each one plays a role in creating that melt-in-your-mouth sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly crisp broccoli that make this recipe so irresistible.
- Pasta (250 g, penne, rotini, or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape to catch every bit of sauce.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing chicken and adding a subtle fruity base.
- Chicken breasts (2, cubed): The star protein, providing juicy tenderness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Aromatic punch that infuses flavor deeply.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): For mild warmth that complements the creamy sauce.
- Broccoli florets (1 ½ cups): Adds fresh, slightly crunchy texture and vibrant green color.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The base for that dreamy, velvety sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Sharp and melty, delivering classic comfort flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): For a nutty, savory kick and extra creaminess.
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Adds savory moisture and balances the richness.
- Butter (1 tbsp): Enhances the overall richness and helps meld flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection. This ensures the perfect bite that will hold up well once tossed in the creamy sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts, sprinkling on onion powder and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it turns a beautiful golden brown on all sides and is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to make room for the next step.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli and Garlic
In the same pan, add butter and let it melt completely. Toss in the minced garlic and broccoli florets, sautéing for about two minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the broccoli starts to soften but still retains its bright green color and slight crunch. This step gives the dish a fresh and aromatic foundation.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, creating a creamy base that will coat the pasta and chicken beautifully. This process unlocks the rich, luscious texture central to the Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until both cheeses melt completely and the sauce turns silky smooth. This cheese blend perfectly balances sharpness and nuttiness, elevating the dish to cheesy bliss.
Step 6: Combine
Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the pan, tossing everything well to ensure each piece is enveloped in that creamy, cheesy garlic sauce. This combination step harmonizes all the flavors and textures so every bite is pure delight.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve your brilliant creation immediately while the sauce is warm and silky. This dish tastes best fresh, loaded with the warm, comforting flavors that make it a family favorite time and time again.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Finish off your plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top also adds a deliciously savory touch and an appealing look that invites you to dig in.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, garlic bread, or a simple roasted vegetable medley. These sides complement the richness of the dish by adding variety in flavors and textures without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in rustic bowls or straight from the skillet for a casual, cozy vibe. Alternatively, plate it neatly with a swirl of sauce and a sprig of fresh herbs for a more elegant presentation that’s perfect for special dinners or entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the sauce creamy, ready for a quick reheated meal.
Freezing
While the pasta can be frozen, it’s best to do so without the sauce to preserve texture. Freeze cooked pasta separately, and prepare or freeze the sauce in small portions. Reheat and combine fresh for best results when you want a ready-made meal later.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove with a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Microwave reheating works too but stirring halfway through ensures the sauce warms evenly and stays creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan provide a classic flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella for extra stretchiness or Gouda for a smoky twist. Just make sure to pick cheeses that melt well to keep the sauce smooth.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply skip the chicken and add more broccoli or vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. You can also toss in some chickpeas or tofu for protein while keeping the cheesy, garlicky flavor intact.
What pasta works best for the Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe?
Penne, rotini, and fettuccine are excellent choices because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Feel free to use your preferred pasta shape, but those varieties typically deliver the best textural experience.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to eat, simply warm the sauce and combine everything, allowing you to save time on busy days.
Is the sauce gluten-free?
The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to choose gluten-free pasta if you require a completely gluten-free meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe that makes it a dependable go-to meal when you want something comforting and delicious. It’s simple to make yet feels like a culinary hug on a plate, inviting you to savor every cheesy, garlicky bite. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorites to share with family and friends!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente pasta in a rich garlic cheese sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 250 g pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with onion powder and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the broccoli and garlic: In the same pan, add butter and let it melt. Then add the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and broccoli is slightly tender but still crisp.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the pan. Toss everything together thoroughly so the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your cheesy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk and reduce cheese slightly.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Feel free to swap broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or peas.
- Ensure pasta is not overcooked to maintain a good texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
