This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a wholesome, creamy dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make meal that brings together the best of lean protein, vegetables, and pasta. With a creamy Parmesan sauce and a touch of garlic, this dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal. The addition of red pepper flakes gives it a slight kick, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your taste. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe comes together in no time and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have much time to cook but still want something delicious.

2. Creamy and Flavorful

The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and heavy cream creates a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken, broccoli, and pasta.

3. Packed with Protein and Veggies

With lean chicken breasts and broccoli, this pasta dish provides a great balance of protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious meal for the whole family.

4. Customizable

You can adjust the ingredients to your preferences. If you prefer a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, or use a different pasta shape if you prefer.

5. Kid-Friendly

The creamy sauce and familiar flavors of chicken and pasta make this dish a hit with kids. Plus, the broccoli adds a healthy touch without overwhelming the flavors.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
Cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)

Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Grated Parmesan cheese

Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Chicken and Veggie Pasta: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Swap the grated Parmesan cheese for cream cheese and increase the amount of cream for an even creamier, more decadent version.
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Add a bit of lemon zest and lemon juice to the sauce for a bright and zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy richness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add the heavy cream (or half-and-half) to the skillet with the garlic, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta and broccoli florets. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add the Parmesan

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve the pasta in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften when combined with the sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce compared to pre-grated Parmesan.
Add pasta water: If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of pasta water helps loosen it and make it creamy again.

Customize your sauce: You can add more garlic or extra spices, such as Italian seasoning, to customize the flavor of your sauce.

How to Serve

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs nicely with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. For an extra indulgent touch, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or crispy roasted potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra cream or milk to bring the sauce back to a creamy consistency.

Freezing

You can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When ready to reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of cream or water if necessary.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stovetop, adding a little cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this dish. Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the pasta.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or even spaghetti will work well in this dish. Use your favorite pasta shape.

3. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken, broccoli, and pasta ahead of time, then assemble and make the sauce when you’re ready to serve.

6. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to increase the heat level.

7. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking. You may need to adjust cooking time.

8. Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can try other cheeses like mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

9. Can I skip the garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can skip it, but it adds a lot of flavor to the sauce. Consider using a little onion powder or garlic powder for a milder flavor.

10. Can I use a store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce for a quicker option, but homemade sauce will provide a fresher and more flavorful result.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick, creamy, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and full of flavor, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Whether you enjoy it as is or make your own variations, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied.