Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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Introduction

Craving a comforting yet nutritious meal? This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is the perfect combination of juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and al dente pasta, all coated in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a hearty family dinner.

Not only is this dish quick and easy, but it’s also packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli, making it a balanced meal. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can use different pasta shapes, adjust the sauce’s thickness, or add other vegetables to suit your taste.

If you love creamy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta or this One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta for a spicier twist.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta:

  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work well)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth of flavor)

Optional Add-ins:

  • ½ cup mushrooms, sliced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon paprika for extra smokiness

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
  3. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to soften them.
  4. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  4. Add the heavy cream, milk, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
  5. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and incorporated.
  2. Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet.
  3. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce.
  4. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy chicken broccoli pasta!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

🔹 Healthier Option: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter yet creamy texture.

🔹 Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and check that your chicken broth is gluten-free.

🔹 Keto/Low-Carb Version: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

🔹 Cheesy Twist: Add mozzarella cheese along with Parmesan for an extra gooey, cheesy experience.

🔹 Extra Protein: Stir in some crisped bacon bits or shrimp for a boost in flavor and protein.

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating:

  • Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Simply thaw it beforehand or add it directly to the boiling pasta water for the last 3-4 minutes.

2. What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli works best because it holds onto the creamy sauce well.

3. Can I make this without dairy?

Yes! Substitute coconut milk or almond milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

4. How do I make the sauce thicker?

Add 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce.

5. Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely! Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.

6. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Shred pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and add it at the end to save time.

7. Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! Store in portions and reheat when ready. Just add a little milk when reheating to keep it creamy.

8. What other veggies can I add?

Mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, or spinach all work great!

9. Can I bake this dish?

Yes! Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.

10. How can I add more flavor?

Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a fantastic, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for families or anyone craving a delicious, hearty meal. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s an excellent choice for busy nights or special occasions.

Want to try more pasta recipes? Check out this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a refreshing seafood twist!

Try this recipe tonight, and let me know how you liked it! 🍽️😋

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