If you are craving a dish that combines comfort and freshness in one delightful plate, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender chicken pieces, vibrant broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked pasta all wrapped in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce. Every bite offers a warm, satisfying mouthful that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family dinner, this recipe shines with simple ingredients that turn into a spectacular meal. I absolutely adore how easily the flavors meld, creating a dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe, the magic starts with a handful of humble yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the tender chicken adding protein and heartiness, to the broccoli bringing color and a fresh crunch, all the way to the silky cream sauce that wraps everything in comfort.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or preferred choice): Choose your favorite pasta shape to soak up the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a pop of green and a nutritious bite.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and adding a fruity depth.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender and juicy protein that flavors the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a rich aroma and a subtle zing to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that irresistibly smooth and creamy texture.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness and adds depth of flavor.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, nutty taste that ties everything together.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings warmth and herbal notes.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a hint of heat for those who enjoy a little spice.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it until just al dente, meaning it is perfectly tender but still has a slight bite. In the last two minutes of cooking, toss the broccoli florets into the boiling water with the pasta so they steam and soften just right. This technique ensures the broccoli stays bright green and crisp-tender. Drain everything together and set aside, ready to be brought back to life in the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them generously with salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step creates a delicious crust and locks in the juicy tenderness of the chicken. Once ready, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for the next stage.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick sauté releases the garlic’s aroma without it becoming bitter. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to thicken just enough to coat the pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat every piece with that velvety sauce. Then add the drained pasta and broccoli, tossing everything with care to ensure every forkful bursts with creamy goodness and fresh broccoli bites. Let the skillet cook for another 2 minutes, so the flavors meld perfectly and the dish reaches cozy perfection.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright, fresh note, and serve immediately. This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is best enjoyed warm while the sauce is silky and the chicken tender. The parsley adds that lovely color contrast and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is an excellent, classic garnish for this dish, adding a pop of green and a subtle herbal flavor. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top if you want an even cheesier finish. A dash of cracked black pepper not only enhances appearance but also adds a gentle bite that wakes up the palate.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the sauce. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette slices are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables like carrots or bell peppers add sweetness and earthiness alongside the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the colorful broccoli and creamy sauce beautifully. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to elevate the presentation further. If you want to get fancy, drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or balsamic glaze just before serving to add shine and a burst of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, transfer the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken in the fridge, so you might need to loosen it upon reheating.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh for peak creaminess, you can freeze leftover portions. Pack the pasta into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir constantly to avoid the sauce sticking or separating. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, but stovetop reheating will yield the best creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe works well with penne, fettuccine, rotini, or even shells. Choose a shape that holds sauce well and suits your preference.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives to keep the rich texture without dairy.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt can be used, though broth adds more flavor depth.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas can be sautéed with the chicken for extra nutrition and color. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How spicy is the recipe with red pepper flakes?
The ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat that enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish. You can always omit or adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration on your plate every time you make it. It strikes a perfect balance between indulgent creaminess and fresh, vibrant ingredients, making it an all-around crowd-pleaser. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—once you try it, this recipe will become a beloved staple in your meal rotation!
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 delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta that combines tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, and pasta in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. This easy-to-make dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or preferred choice)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
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 together with the pasta. Drain both and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and broccoli, tossing everything together to combine well.
- Finishing Touches and Serve: Allow the mixture to cook together for 2 more minutes, letting the flavors meld. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.
- You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level or omit for no spice.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid curdling the cream sauce.
