Cozy Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe for Busy Nights

Comfort meets creativity in this simple chicken and broccoli pasta that will surprise you with its delightful flavors.

Weeknight dinners just got more exciting with a dish that combines tender chicken and crisp broccoli in a creamy sauce.

Pasta lovers understand the magic of a one-pot meal that comes together quickly and satisfies hungry bellies.

Home cooks can whip up this recipe with basic ingredients found in most kitchen pantries.

The harmonious blend of protein and vegetables makes this meal both nutritious and delicious.

Each forkful promises a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ready to transform your dinner routine with this effortless and mouthwatering recipe?

Reasons to Make Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• This pasta dish brings restaurant-quality meal straight to your kitchen in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy families craving delicious dinner without complex cooking steps.
• Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrient-rich broccoli, the recipe sneaks healthy ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that kids and adults will eagerly devour.
• Using basic pantry staples and requiring just one pot, this recipe eliminates complicated techniques, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels from beginner to intermediate.
• Easy to customize with different cheeses, herbs, or vegetable additions, the dish allows creative cooks to personalize the recipe while maintaining its core delicious foundation.

Ingredient List for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Chicken Breast: A lean, tender protein that adds substance and flavor to the pasta dish.
• Broccoli Florets: Vibrant green vegetable that provides nutrition and a fresh crunch to the meal.

• Pasta (Penne or Fettuccine): A hearty base that holds sauce well and creates a satisfying texture.
• Olive Oil: Smooth, rich oil that helps create a light and flavorful coating for the pasta.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that brings depth and warmth to the overall dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of chicken and vegetables.

• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, salty cheese that adds a creamy and rich finish to the pasta.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Spicy element for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meal.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that provides a pop of color and fresh flavor as a garnish.

How to Cook Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Easily

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Toss in pasta and cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add fresh broccoli florets to the same pot. This method saves time and helps the broccoli retain its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander, letting the excess water flow away.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken With Flavor

• Chicken breasts
• Minced garlic
• Chopped onions
• Salt
• Black pepper

Cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is completely cooked through. The meat should have no pink in the center and feel firm when touched.

Step 3: Create Luxurious Creamy Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Chicken broth

Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. The combination will create a rich, velvety coating that clings to every pasta strand.

Step 4: Combine And Serve

Gently fold the cooked pasta and broccoli into the creamy chicken mixture. Ensure everything is evenly coated and heated through. Transfer to serving plates and garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delightful homemade pasta right away while it’s warm and wonderfully creamy!

Tips for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Maximize Flavor Boost: Toss cooked pasta and broccoli with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking and add extra richness.
• Perfect Chicken Seasoning: Generously season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking to ensure deep, layered taste.
• Quick Protein Prep: Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking and faster meal preparation.
• Creamy Sauce Technique: Use low-fat Greek yogurt or half-and-half as a healthier alternative to heavy cream for a lighter sauce that still provides creamy texture.
• Smart Broccoli Cooking: Slightly undercook broccoli during boiling to maintain a crisp texture and vibrant green color, preventing mushiness in the final dish.

Best Way to Store Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Store leftover chicken and broccoli pasta in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Before storing, drizzle a little olive oil or chicken broth over the pasta to maintain moisture and prevent clumping.
• Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth to restore its creamy texture. Microwave works as a quick alternative, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring between each.
• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairings That Fit with Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complements the light, fresh flavors of chicken and broccoli pasta, cutting through the richness with its zesty citrus notes.
• Crusty, warm garlic bread provides a delightful crunch and absorbs the pasta's creamy sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience with its buttery, aromatic profile.
• A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta, balancing the dish with bright, acidic undertones and adding a nutritious element.
• This light, crisp wine matches the delicate chicken and vegetable flavors, providing a clean, palate-cleansing accompaniment that elevates the meal's subtle nuances.

Variations for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Gluten-Free Pasta Choice: Swap traditional wheat pasta with gluten-free alternatives like rice pasta or chickpea pasta for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Cream Sauce: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream to create a lactose-free version that maintains a rich, creamy texture.
• Vegetarian Protein Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or roasted chickpeas for a plant-based protein that delivers similar satisfying flavors.
• Low-Carb Veggie Swap: Replace pasta entirely with spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carbohydrate meal that's still packed with nutrients.

Easy Homemade Chicken And Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta delivers comfort on a plate, blending tender protein with crisp green florets in a silky sauce. Home cooks can craft this delightful dinner quickly, enjoying restaurant-quality flavors without leaving their kitchen.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Main Carbohydrates:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne, bowtie, or your choice)
• 2 cups broccoli florets

Seasoning and Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Ignite a generously sized cauldron of water, seasoning it with a hearty pinch of salt, creating a flavorful bath for the pasta.
2. Submerge the pasta into the roiling waters, adhering to the package’s recommended cooking duration to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
3. Approximately 2-3 minutes before the pasta reaches its peak, introduce the vibrant broccoli florets into the bubbling liquid, allowing them to dance and soften alongside the noodles.
4. Once the pasta and broccoli have reached their optimal tenderness, carefully evacuate the contents into a colander, letting the excess water cascade away.
5. Gently transfer the drained pasta and broccoli to a waiting vessel, preparing them for the next culinary transformation.

Notes

• Choose whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to create a healthier, allergy-friendly version of this classic dish.
• Blanch broccoli separately for a brighter green color and crispier texture if you prefer more defined vegetables in the pasta.
• Opt for skinless chicken breasts and slice them thinly to ensure quick, even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
• Consider adding red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost that elevates the dish’s overall taste profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg