Alright, if you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and super comforting, this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is about to be your new go-to meal. It’s got juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. And the best part? You can make it in 30 minutes or less with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
This dish is perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you just want some serious comfort food without the fuss. Let’s get cooking!
🔥 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ One-Pan Wonder – Less mess, more flavor!
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✅ Super Creamy – But not too heavy.
✅ Veggies Included – So it’s basically healthy, right? 😏
✅ Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this one.
🛒 What You’ll Need
For the Chicken & Pasta:
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or whatever you like)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream (or half & half)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons butter
👩🍳 How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli
- Boil the pasta in salted water until almost al dente (it’ll finish cooking in the sauce).
- About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets to cook with it.
- Drain everything and set it aside, but keep ½ cup of pasta water for later!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Bring it to a gentle simmer, then add parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Put It All Together
- Add the chicken, pasta, and broccoli back into the pan.
- Toss everything together, letting the sauce coat every bite.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with extra parmesan and black pepper.
- Serve immediately because creamy pasta is best fresh!
🔥 Tips for the Best Chicken & Broccoli Pasta
✔ Don’t overcook the pasta – It’ll soak up some sauce, so leave it slightly underdone.
✔ Save that pasta water – It makes the sauce extra silky.
✔ Use fresh parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as well.
✔ Like it spicy? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
🍽️ What to Serve with It
This dish is a meal on its own, but if you wanna go all out:
🥖 Garlic bread – Because more carbs = more happiness.
🥗 Side salad – Something light and fresh balances out the creaminess.
🍷 White wine – A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly.
🥶 Storing & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Add a splash of milk or broth and warm on the stovetop or microwave.
❓ FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yep! Just thaw it first and toss it in with the pasta for the last minute of cooking.
2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
I love penne or fettuccine, but anything works!
3. Can I make this lighter?
Swap half & half for the heavy cream, or use a mix of Greek yogurt and milk.
4. What if I don’t have parmesan?
Try grated pecorino romano or even a bit of shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or just want a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe NEVER disappoints.
🔥 Try it out and let me know how it turns out! Tag me in your pics because I know this one’s gonna be a keeper. 😍🍝