This Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and broccoli. It’s quick to make, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether I’m cooking for myself or sharing with others, it never disappoints. The rich flavors, garlicky aroma, and smooth cheese sauce create a dish I can’t get enough of!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love how creamy and comforting this dish is. The combination of garlic, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan creates a rich, indulgent sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. The addition of tender chicken and fresh broccoli not only adds great texture but also balances out the richness of the cheese. This recipe is also easy to make, so it’s a great option when I want something quick but still full of flavor. It’s a great family meal, and leftovers taste just as delicious the next day!
Ingredients
250 g pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts, cubed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp onion powder
1 ½ cups broccoli florets
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chicken broth
1 tbsp butter
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with onion powder and black pepper, and cook until golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Cook the broccoli and garlic: In the same pan, add the butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 2 minutes.
Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, creating a creamy sauce.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the pan, tossing everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to create a lighter version of this dish.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-free: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store any leftover Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I recommend warming it up on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
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FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like—penne, rotini, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. It’s up to you and what you have on hand!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While this dish is best served fresh, I’ve successfully made it ahead and stored it in the fridge for a day or two. Just be sure to reheat it gently to prevent the sauce from separating.
What other vegetables can I add to this pasta?
In addition to broccoli, you can add spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Feel free to mix in any veggies you enjoy!
Can I use different cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can swap it for mozzarella or Gruyère. Parmesan can also be substituted with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you like your sauce a little thicker, you can let it simmer for longer to reduce and thicken, or you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to achieve a thicker consistency.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick and easy dish that never fails to deliver. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for a cozy dinner or a family meal. Whether I’m making it for a special occasion or just because I’m craving something comforting, this recipe always hits the spot. I highly recommend giving it a try.
📖 Recipe:
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Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a creamy, indulgent dish packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheesy garlic sauce. Quick to make and incredibly comforting, this pasta is perfect for a cozy dinner or family meal. The combination of garlic, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving it to others, this dish will never disappoint!
Ingredients
250 g pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts, cubed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
1 ½ cups broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chicken broth
1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, season with onion powder and black pepper, and cook until golden brown. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the broccoli and garlic: In the same pan, add butter. Once melted, toss in minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for 2 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add the cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the pan. Toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Main Course, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
