How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: A Creamy, Protein-Packed Comfort Dish 🍝🍗🥦✨

1. Introduction

Chicken and broccoli pasta is one of those classic comfort dishes that never goes out of style. Combining tender, juicy chicken with crisp broccoli florets and al dente pasta in a rich, creamy sauce, this recipe delivers both incredible flavor and wholesome nutrition. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner solution, a meal prep option, or just craving some hearty comfort food, this chicken and broccoli pasta recipe checks all the boxes. The best part? It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules while still delivering restaurant-quality results.

2. Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious chicken and pasta dish. These simple components come together to create something truly special:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed (about 1 lb)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh is best for texture)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder in a pinch)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter option)
• ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter for richer flavor)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste (start with ½ tsp each)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional but adds nice color)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Now let’s walk through each step to create this creamy, satisfying dish. Follow these instructions carefully for the best results!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water (about 4 quarts) and bring it to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water – this seasons the pasta from the inside out. Add your pasta (I recommend penne or fettuccine for this recipe) and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining – this will help create a silky sauce later. If you love creamy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy our cottage cheese alfredo recipe.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels (this helps them brown better) and season with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). In the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds) – be careful not to burn it! For more chicken recipe ideas, check out our chicken cordon bleu casserole.

Step 3: Add the Broccoli

Now it’s time to add the broccoli. If you’re using fresh broccoli, cut it into bite-sized florets (about 1-1.5 inches). Add them to the skillet with the chicken and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes to steam the broccoli slightly. You want the broccoli to be tender-crisp – not mushy! Remove the lid and let any excess liquid evaporate for another minute. For another great pasta dish with vegetables, try our creamy smoked sausage pasta.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta and Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine all the flavors. Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet along with the Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water (start with 2 tablespoons and add more as needed). Finally, season with Italian seasoning and additional salt and pepper to taste. For more creamy pasta inspiration, check out this similar chicken and broccoli pasta recipe from The Cozy Cook.

4. Serving Suggestions

Presentation matters! Serve your chicken and broccoli pasta hot in shallow bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. For a complete meal, pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad. This dish also makes a great lunch option when packed in meal prep containers. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a few hours, making it perfect for next-day meals.

5. Tips for the Best Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor. Frozen broccoli can become mushy when cooked this way.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken – this ensures proper browning.
• Reserve pasta water before draining – the starchy liquid helps emulsify the sauce.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick that balances the creaminess.
• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

6. Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs:

• Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and add mushrooms, bell peppers, or extra broccoli. You could also use chickpeas for protein.
• Dairy-free version: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta (brown rice or chickpea pasta work well).
• Extra creamy: Stir in 2 oz cream cheese when adding the heavy cream.
• Lemon twist: Add zest and juice of 1 lemon for brightness.

7. Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce and warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Note that the broccoli may soften more upon reheating. For another great make-ahead meal, try our creamy chicken noodle soup.

8. Nutritional Benefits

This chicken and broccoli pasta isn’t just delicious – it’s also nutritionally balanced. The chicken provides lean protein (about 25g per serving), essential for muscle maintenance. Broccoli delivers fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. The pasta offers energizing carbohydrates, while the Parmesan adds calcium. To lighten it up, you can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the cream by substituting with Greek yogurt. For more nutritious comfort food, check out our alfredo lasagna soup or cheesy hamburger potato soup.

9. Conclusion

This chicken and broccoli pasta recipe proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and creamy comfort, it’s a meal that satisfies on every level. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to something delicious, this dish delivers every time. The best part? It’s so easy to customize based on what you have on hand. So grab your skillet and give this recipe a try – your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

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• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Description

Chicken and broccoli pasta is a creamy, protein-packed comfort dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a flavorful sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you crave a wholesome, satisfying meal. Packed with protein and nutrients, this chicken and broccoli pasta recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside (about 5-6 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to soften the broccoli further.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, tossing until everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Notes

• Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is key to preventing mushiness.
• Adjust the sauce thickness with pasta water if needed.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: chicken and broccoli pasta, creamy pasta recipe, easy dinner ideas, healthy pasta dish, weeknight meal, protein-packed pasta, Italian-American cuisine