Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
A comforting and satisfying dish, Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta coated in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner because it’s simple, filling, and packed with flavor and nutrients. The broccoli adds freshness and color, while the creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
For the Pasta
300 g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, sliced into bite-size pieces
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy cream (or cooking cream)
½ cup chicken broth
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Garnish (Optional)
Extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped
Black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Add broccoli florets to the boiling pasta during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper.
Cook for 5–6 minutes until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
Stir and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add chili flakes if you like a little spice.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken back into the pan.
Toss in the pasta and broccoli.
Mix everything well so the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
Cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Serve
Transfer to plates or bowls.
Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fat: 24 g
Fiber: 4 g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw it slightly and add it directly to the pasta while cooking.
2. What pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne, fettuccine, and rotini work great because the sauce sticks well to them.
3. Can I make this recipe lighter?
Yes. Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk and reduce the cheese slightly.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. How do I reheat the pasta?
Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
6. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, peas, or bell peppers are great additions.
Restaurant-style Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
One-pot Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta (30-minute version)
Healthy / low-calorie version.