Easy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe: Homemade Comfort Bliss

Crafting a delightful chicken and broccoli pasta brings comfort directly to your dinner table.

Fresh ingredients come together in a magical culinary dance.

Creamy textures blend with hearty protein and vibrant vegetables.

Weeknight meals can sparkle with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Kitchen skills matter less than passion for good food.

This recipe promises a satisfying meal that connects people through shared enjoyment.

Let’s uncover how simple ingredients can create something truly memorable.

Chicken Broccoli Pasta That’s Always a Crowd Favorite

• Quick Family Dinner Solution: Whip up this delicious pasta in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals when time is tight.
• Balanced Nutrition Powerhouse: Combines lean protein from chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and satisfying pasta for a complete and wholesome meal that keeps everyone full and happy.
• No-Fuss Cooking Technique: Uses a single skillet for most of the cooking, minimizing cleanup and allowing even novice cooks to create a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort.
• Customizable Flavor Adventure: Easily adaptable with optional red pepper flakes for spice lovers or extra Parmesan for cheese enthusiasts, ensuring everyone can personalize their plate.

Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe Ingredients

• Chicken: Lean protein that adds hearty flavor and substance to the pasta dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for easy cutting and quick cooking.
• Parmesan Cheese: Rich, salty cheese that creates a creamy texture and enhances overall taste. Freshly grated provides the best flavor.

• Pasta, Broccoli: Pasta provides carbohydrate base while broccoli adds nutrition and green color. Choose pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like penne or fusilli. Fresh broccoli with tight, dark green florets ensures best texture.

• Olive Oil: Essential for cooking chicken and creating smooth sauce base. Extra virgin olive oil offers better flavor.
• Garlic: Adds deep, aromatic flavor to the sauce. Fresh garlic cloves provide more intense taste than pre-minced.
• Heavy Cream: Creates rich, smooth sauce texture. Full-fat cream ensures best consistency.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance overall dish flavor. Freshly ground black pepper recommended.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spice component for added heat. Adjust amount based on personal spice preference.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish that adds fresh herb brightness. Chopped just before serving maintains vibrant color.

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Prep Guide

Step 1: Boil Water and Prepare Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt.

Bring the water to a rolling boil.

Carefully drop the pasta into the bubbling water and cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.

Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

In the same pot, quickly steam the broccoli until it turns a vibrant green and becomes tender but still crisp.

Step 2: Sizzle the Chicken

Grab a spacious skillet and warm it up with a splash of olive oil.

Toss in the diced chicken pieces, seasoning them with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of black pepper.

Let the chicken dance in the hot pan, turning golden brown and cooking completely through.

Once the chicken looks perfectly cooked, transfer it to a waiting plate.

Step 3: Craft the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil.

Drop in the minced garlic and let it release its aromatic magic for a minute or two.

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese.

• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir the mixture until the cheese melts and the sauce transforms into a velvety smooth consistency.

If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a bit of pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Combine the cooked pasta, sizzled chicken, and steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce-filled skillet.

Gently toss everything until each ingredient is beautifully coated.

For those who love a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes.

Garnish with a handful of freshly chopped parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Dish out the pasta onto warm plates.

If you’re feeling indulgent, shower the top with additional Parmesan cheese.

Serve immediately while the dish is piping hot and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Chicken Broccoli Pasta – Quick Fixes

• Ensure pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture and ability to absorb the creamy sauce.
• Steam broccoli briefly to maintain its bright green color and crisp-tender texture, preventing mushiness and preserving nutrients.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming instead of searing.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, more flavorful sauce that melts more evenly compared to pre-packaged cheese.
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, or use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storing Chicken Broccoli Pasta Right

• Store leftover pasta in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture and prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming.

Pasta and Broccoli Pairing Choices

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a chardonnay or pinot grigio to complement the creamy sauce and cut through the richness of the dish, enhancing the chicken and broccoli flavors.
• Boost with Garlic Bread: Create a perfect side of toasted garlic bread with herb butter to soak up the delicious sauce and add a crunchy texture contrast to the pasta.
• Match with Fresh Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta, providing a zesty and refreshing counterpoint to the rich main course.
• Complement with Sparkling Water: Choose a citrus-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate between bites and refresh the taste buds during the meal.

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Made Your Way

• Vegan Veggie Delight: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, swap heavy cream for coconut milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpea flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace pasta with spiralized cauliflower or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carb alternative that still delivers fantastic flavor.
• Spicy Mediterranean Kick: Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and swap Parmesan for feta cheese to create a Mediterranean-inspired variation with extra zest.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with other shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. Choose a pasta that can hold the creamy sauce well.

• Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt. You can also use less cheese or choose a low-fat Parmesan to reduce calories.

• What protein alternatives work if I don't want chicken?

Shrimp, tofu, or white beans are excellent protein substitutes. They’ll blend nicely with the broccoli and creamy sauce.

• How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Roast some zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach and mix them in. These veggies will boost nutrition and add extra flavor to the pasta.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta delivers comfort and satisfaction in one delightful dish. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a balanced meal that promises warmth and flavor for hungry families craving a simple yet delicious dinner.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Carbohydrates and Vegetables:

• 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)

Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare a spacious pot with salted water, bringing it to a rolling boil. Submerge pasta and cook until reaching an ideal al dente texture, then carefully drain and reserve.
2. Simultaneously, gently steam broccoli florets, ensuring they maintain a vibrant green color and tender-crisp consistency. Remove and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a robust skillet over medium temperature. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and completely cooked through, developing a rich exterior. Transfer protein to a separate plate.
4. In the same skillet, introduce additional olive oil and quickly toast minced garlic until aromatic, releasing its intense flavor profile.
5. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, blending smoothly with grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk continuously to create a silky, cohesive sauce, adjusting thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Consolidate all components by introducing cooked pasta, seared chicken, and steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce. Gently toss to ensure comprehensive coating and uniform heating.
7. Elevate the dish’s complexity by sprinkling red pepper flakes for subtle heat and garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.
8. Present the pasta immediately, optionally accompanied by additional Parmesan cheese for those desiring extra richness.

Notes

• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter, healthier version that still maintains creamy texture.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate different dietary needs without compromising taste.
• Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
• Chop broccoli into small, uniform pieces for even cooking and better sauce distribution throughout the dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 610
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 36 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg