Name: Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or preferred choice); 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta a creamy and flavorful pasta dish with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. This meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when I need something comforting yet simple.

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a fast dinner.

Creamy and Flavorful: The garlic Parmesan sauce is rich and pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and pasta.

Nutritious: With protein-packed chicken and fresh broccoli, it’s a wholesome and balanced meal.

Customizable: I can switch up the pasta type or add more veggies to make it my own.

One-Pan Simplicity: Besides boiling the pasta, everything comes together in one skillet for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or my choice)

2 cups broccoli florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup heavy cream

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, I add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Then, I drain and set everything aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the chicken, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). I remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, I add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

I pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Then I let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

I return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce.

Then I add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. I let it cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

I remove the skillet from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories per Serving: 520 kcal

Variations

Protein Swap: Instead of chicken, I can use shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Pasta Choices: I sometimes use whole wheat pasta for added fiber or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

Extra Veggies: I love adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for more color and nutrition.

Lighter Version: I replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce.

Cheese Options: A mix of Parmesan and mozzarella makes the sauce extra cheesy and gooey.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: I reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Freezing: While pasta with cream sauce doesn’t freeze well, I can freeze the cooked chicken and broccoli separately and make the sauce fresh when needed.

Related Recipes:

Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

FAQs

How can I make this dish healthier?

I use whole wheat pasta, reduce the heavy cream, and add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini for a lighter but still satisfying meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I cook the chicken and prep the sauce in advance, then reheat and combine everything with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

I substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a mix of Greek yogurt and broth for a lighter yet creamy texture.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, I add a splash of pasta water, chicken broth, or milk while reheating to loosen it up.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! I add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that brings comfort to the table in just 30 minutes. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli create a perfect balance of flavors. Whether I’m looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a meal to impress, this recipe is always a winner.

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