Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Description
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a comforting, family-friendly one-pot dish made with tender chicken breast, al dente pasta, crisp broccoli, and a luscious, garlic-infused cream sauce. It’s satisfying, quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve to guests.
Total Time
Step Time
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minute
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Pasta:
8 oz (225g) penne or fettuccine pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
Salt (for pasta water)
For the Chicken:
2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika (optional)
For the Creamy Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook Pasta & Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.
Add broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Drain pasta and broccoli; set aside.
2. Cook Chicken
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Sauté chicken until golden and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and melt
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Pour in chicken broth and cream; stir well.
Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese.
Simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine & Serve
Return cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet.
Toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Nutrient Amount
Calories 580 kcal
Protein 35g
Fat 28g
Saturated Fat 14g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 4g
Sugars 3g
Sodium 480mg
Calcium 180mg
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on specific brands and ingredient choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast?
A: Yes! Shred 2 cups of rotisserie chicken and add it directly to the sauce when combining with the pasta and broccoli.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: It’s not ideal to freeze cream-based sauces as they may separate when thawed, but it can be done. Reheat slowly and stir well.
Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
A: Try half-and-half for a lighter option, or use a mix of milk and a tablespoon of cream cheese. For dairy-free, use full-fat coconut milk.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold the sauce well. Fettuccine or linguine are good if you prefer long noodles