Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Intro
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort food! Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta come together in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce that feels indulgent yet balanced. It’s a one-pan style meal that’s quick enough for busy nights but still cozy and satisfying for a family dinner. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook fresh chicken breasts—it’s flexible, delicious, and always a hit at the table.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work best)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450g), diced into bite-size pieces
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper, to taste
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Extra Parmesan & parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta & Broccoli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.
In the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking, add broccoli florets.
Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook until golden and cooked through (6–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Combine Everything:
Add cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli into the sauce.
Toss until everything is well coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan.
Serve:
Garnish with extra Parmesan, parsley, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
Tips & Variations
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Swap broccoli with asparagus, peas, or spinach for variety.
For extra creaminess, stir in 2 oz of cream cheese before serving.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.