Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and pasta in a savory, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Best of all, it’s made in one pot for easy cleanup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
It’s a simple, no-fuss dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes
Packed with protein, veggies, and hearty pasta for a balanced meal
You can customize it with your favorite pasta or sauce
It’s a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup
Ingredients
Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need. For the full list and measurements, check the recipe card below.
- Chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Broccoli florets
- Pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
- Olive oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Chicken broth or cream
- Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions. In the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set them aside.
Cook the Chicken
While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides and fully cooked through (about 6-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, then sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth (or cream for a creamier version) and stir, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until well combined. If desired, stir in Parmesan cheese to make the sauce extra creamy and flavorful.
Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with extra salt, pepper, or Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Tricks
If you prefer a creamy sauce, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of chicken broth.
To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it to the skillet with the sauce.
For added flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a little heat.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
Add more veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini would be great additions to this dish.
Switch the protein: You can use turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a different twist.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to make it healthier or cater to dietary preferences.
Make it cheesy: Add mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A nice glass of white wine or sparkling water would pair perfectly with this meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works just as well. Be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This is a great dish for meal prep! Cook everything ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy reheating during the week.
What kind of pasta is best for this recipe?
Any short pasta works well, but penne, rotini, or farfalle are great choices. You can also use spaghetti if you prefer.
Can I make it creamy without heavy cream?
Yes, you can use a little milk or add cream cheese for a creamy texture without the heaviness of cream.
Conclusion
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a tasty, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With tender chicken, crispy broccoli, and pasta tossed in a savory sauce, it’s a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner every time! Enjoy!
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How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Italian
Description
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta, all tossed in a savory garlic and Parmesan sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and can be customized with your favorite pasta shape and seasonings.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, steam or blanch the broccoli until tender but still vibrant, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine the Dish:
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
- If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of spice and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve:
- Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta warm with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for a faster option.
- Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg