Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and fresh broccoli in a creamy, garlicky sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
2 cups broccoli florets
Salt (for boiling water)
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
½ cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta & Broccoli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package instructions.
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets.
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Cook the Chicken:
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same pan, melt pour oil over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking continuously.
Slowly pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking until smooth.
Add Parmesan, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and adjust salt & pepper.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Combine Everything:
Add cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back into the pan.
Toss to coat everything in the creamy garlic sauce.
If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, garlicky goodness!
Tips & Tricks:
Use Fresh Garlic:
Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor!
Adjust Creaminess:
For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Enhance Flavor:
Add a splash of white wine while making the sauce for depth.
Make It Spicier:
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Protein Swap:
Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for variety.
Storage:
Keeps in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: ~550
Protein: ~40g
Carbs: ~50g
Fat: ~22g
Fiber: ~5g
Sugar: ~4g