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If you’re craving a comforting and utterly satisfying meal that brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all wrapped up in a velvety sauce, then you absolutely have to try this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that feels special enough for company yet simple enough to whip up in under 30 minutes. The rich creaminess blends beautifully with the hearty chicken and fresh broccoli, creating a dish that’s truly a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create both incredible flavor and pleasing texture. Each component contributes something essential, whether it’s the pasta providing a tender base, the broccoli adding a pop of green and crunch, or the Parmesan cheese for that irresistible cheesy finish.
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape): Choose a shape that holds sauce well to soak up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Tender chunks that cook quickly and soak up seasoning beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and onions, adding a smooth richness.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and flavor.
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Provide a vibrant color contrast and a nutritious crunch.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The star ingredient that gives the sauce its luscious creaminess.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness and adds a subtle savory note.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding sharp, nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean herbs for that comforting taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Crucial for seasoning and bringing the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a bright, fresh finish that lifts the dish visually and in flavor.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but perfectly cooked. About two to three minutes before the pasta is ready, toss in the broccoli florets so they steam gently right alongside the pasta. This technique keeps the broccoli tender-crisp and full of vibrant green color. Drain everything together and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While your pasta and broccoli are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your diced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add it to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about six to eight minutes, giving it occasional stirs until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside so you can build your sauce in the same pan.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce
In the same skillet, add your diced onion and sauté for two to three minutes until softened and sweet. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—the aroma at this stage is simply irresistible! Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for three to four minutes so the sauce thickens just enough to coat your pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta and broccoli. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes delightfully creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed — this step is key to balancing the flavors perfectly.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once the sauce wraps every piece of pasta, chicken, and broccoli in its creamy embrace, it’s time to serve this delicious creation while it’s warm and fresh. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you like for that finishing touch.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and fresh brightness that balances the rich creaminess. For an extra cheesy touch, don’t hesitate to add more grated Parmesan on top just before serving—it melts beautifully into every forkful.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some buttery garlic bread elevates the meal. A light, tangy salad complements the creamy sauce while bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful presentation. Even a casual family dinner feels special when the dish is plated with some fresh herbs and a side of lemon wedges to brighten the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Because of the creamy sauce, it’s normal for it to thicken after chilling—reheating with a splash of milk or broth helps bring back its silky texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although the texture of the broccoli might change slightly. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and consume within two months for the best flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.
Reheating
When warming leftovers, do so over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. Add a bit of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce so it returns to that creamy consistency you love. Microwaving works too, but shorter intervals and stirring in between prevent the sauce from separating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini work great because they hold the sauce well, you can use any pasta you enjoy, such as fettuccine or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and replace Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind the flavors will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Definitely. Feel free to mix in mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes to add more texture and flavors. Just sauté them along with the onions for best results.
How do I make sure the chicken stays tender?
Don’t overcook the chicken—cook it just until golden and no longer pink inside. Dicing it into uniform pieces helps it cook evenly and quickly, ensuring juicy, tender bites every time.
Can I prepare this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe in advance?
You can cook the components ahead but for best texture, keep the sauce separate and combine everything just before serving. This helps keep the pasta from soaking up too much sauce and becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so deeply comforting about this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe that it quickly becomes one of those go-to dishes you’ll want to make again and again. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any night you need a little extra warmth from your dinner plate. I’m absolutely thrilled to share this recipe with you—give it a try and let it become your new weeknight favorite!
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