Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

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The first time I made this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, I had no idea it would become such a staple in my weekly dinner rotation. It started out as a quick solution to use up leftover chicken and a bunch of broccoli sitting in the fridge. But once that creamy sauce came together and coated the pasta, I was hooked.

The best part is how incredibly fast and family-friendly this meal is. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday, this recipe fits right in. The tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta create the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.

I find it especially comforting because it doesn’t try too hard. It’s humble yet delicious, with enough room for tweaks and twists if I’m feeling creative. I’ve made this with different types of pasta and experimented with cheese blends, and it always comes out tasting amazing.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This dish is everything you want in a one-pot pasta recipe. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein and veggies, making it a complete meal in one bowl. It also comes together quickly, which is perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty without spending an hour in the kitchen. The mild, comforting flavors also make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can use rotisserie chicken, add more vegetables, or even make it low-carb with spiralized zucchini.

Ingredients

Chicken: A protein-rich centerpiece that brings heartiness to the dish. I usually go with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and chopped or shredded.

Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie adds color, texture, and a nutritious crunch. Fresh broccoli florets work best, but frozen can also be used.

Pasta: Penne, rotini, or fettuccine are ideal choices. Their shape holds the sauce well, giving each bite the perfect balance.

Garlic: Just a bit of minced garlic brings a deep, aromatic base that enhances the flavor profile.

Heavy Cream: The foundation of that luscious creamy sauce. It creates richness and binds everything together.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, it melts beautifully into the sauce, adding depth and saltiness.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors without overpowering the dish.

Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the garlic and adding a silky finish to the sauce.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

In the last 2-3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Let them cook with the pasta just until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain together with the pasta.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Cream

Stir in the cooked chicken pieces and pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Pasta

Lower the heat and add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli, tossing everything together. Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re looking to change things up, this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect canvas. Swap out the pasta for whole wheat, gluten-free, or even a chickpea-based version to fit your dietary preferences. If you’re not in the mood for chicken, cooked shrimp or diced turkey breast are both excellent alternatives.

For the broccoli, try mixing in spinach, kale, or peas. Each adds its own flair and nutrient boost. Instead of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or even a blend of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter version. Want more cheese? A bit of mozzarella or white cheddar melts right in and adds gooey richness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish is incredibly satisfying on its own, but it also shines with a few thoughtful pairings. I love serving it with a crusty garlic bread or a soft, buttery dinner roll to mop up the creamy sauce. A crisp Caesar salad or a light lemon vinaigrette salad balances the richness perfectly.

For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works wonders. If you’re going non-alcoholic, sparkling water with lemon or a cold glass of iced tea does the trick.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using the stovetop over low heat and adding a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. If you prefer the microwave, cover it and reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

I don’t recommend freezing this dish because the cream sauce may separate when thawed, but if you do, just know the texture won’t be quite the same.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook everything ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat with a bit of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.

What pasta works best for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

Short pasta like penne or rotini is great because it holds the sauce well, but fettuccine or spaghetti also works.

Can I use rotisserie chicken in Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a lot of flavor.

Is Chicken and Broccoli Pasta kid-friendly?

Definitely. The mild flavors and creamy texture make it appealing to kids, especially if you go light on the garlic.

How do I make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta lighter?

Use half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk instead of heavy cream, and choose a whole grain or legume-based pasta.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re loving the creamy and hearty feel of this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, then you have to try my Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. It’s got that same rich base with a bold spicy twist that’s perfect for those who like a little heat.

Another must-try is the Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. It’s light, zesty, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

And if you’re in the mood for a veggie-packed side that goes perfectly with pasta dishes, the Roasted Zucchini and Squash adds a wholesome bite and vibrant flavor to your plate.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for future meal planning! Pin it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest so it’s just a click away when you need a comforting and quick dinner option. Share it on Facebook or send it to a friend who could use an easy win in the kitchen. It’s too good not to pass along!

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