Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is one of those cozy dinners that is simple enough for a busy weeknight but still feels like a proper homemade meal. Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta come together with a creamy, savory sauce that coats every bite.
I love how easy this dish is to put together, especially when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s comforting, family-friendly, and packed with familiar flavors that make it a great choice for an easy dinner everyone can enjoy.
Table of Contents
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta, such as penne or rotini
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente, adding the broccoli during the last few minutes so it becomes tender but still keeps some bite, then drain everything well.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about a minute, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream and let the sauce simmer gently.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy, then add the cooked pasta and broccoli and toss everything together until evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta warm with a little extra Parmesan and fresh parsley on top for a simple, comforting family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this pasta easy for any night of the week.
- Quick Dinner: It comes together without requiring hours in the kitchen.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The creamy Parmesan sauce adds a rich, savory flavor to every bite.
- Tender Chicken: Bite-sized pieces of chicken make the dish hearty and satisfying.
Tips and Shortcuts
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Cook the broccoli until tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Avoid overcooking the pasta so it holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce.
- Save Some Pasta Water: Keep a little pasta water before draining in case you need to loosen the sauce.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the sauce a stronger and more delicious flavor.
What to Serve with Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Chicken and broccoli pasta is one of those easy dinners I make when I want something filling without spending too much time in the kitchen. I usually serve it with warm bread and a simple tomato salad, and my children are always happy to see it on the table. A little grated Parmesan on top makes it even more comforting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli ?
Yes. Frozen broccoli is a convenient option. Add it according to the package directions and avoid overcooking it so it does not become too soft.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast ?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add a little extra richness to the dish.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken ?
Yes. Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken can save time. Add it toward the end so it only needs to warm through.
Can I make the sauce cheesier ?
Definitely. Add a little more freshly grated Parmesan for a richer, cheesier sauce.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerator Storage
Let the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, add a small splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently until heated through.
Freezer Storage
Place completely cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently with a little milk or broth to help bring the creamy sauce back together.
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes25
minutes610
kcal40
minutesTender chicken and broccoli are tossed with pasta in a creamy Parmesan sauce flavored with garlic and Italian seasoning. This comforting dinner is simple to prepare and makes a satisfying meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
12 ounces pasta, such as penne or rotini
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
- Cook the pasta and broccoli: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking, then drain well.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook until golden and fully cooked through.
- Make the sauce: Add butter and garlic to the skillet and cook briefly. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then let the mixture simmer gently.
- Add the Parmesan: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, if using, until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Serve warm with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use penne, rotini, or another pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce well.
- Frozen broccoli can be used instead of fresh; cook it until tender but not mushy.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, loosen it with a small splash of milk or chicken broth.
Save this recipe for later on Pinterest
