Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Jump to Recipe

Here’s the deal—life gets hectic. We all know that feeling when dinner creeps up and you’re left staring blankly into the fridge, wondering if takeout is really the best option again. That’s where this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta comes in! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something tasty, quick, and satisfying. Trust me, your family will think you’re a culinary genius, and you’ll know you got it on the table in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This dish is a wonderful blend of comfort and flavor, featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy pasta—all in one dish! It’s one of those recipes that feels special, yet it’s easy enough for a novice cook to whip up. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters in your life (hey, we’ve all been there!).

Ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

8 oz pasta (like penne or fettuccine)
2 cups broccoli florets (because greens are life!)
1 lb chicken breast, cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (get ready for some creamy goodness!)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, if you like a little kick!)

Steps to Culinary Bliss

Boil the Pasta and Broccoli: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions. For the last 2 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. Once done, drain them—don’t forget to save a bit of that pasta water for later!
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add your cubed chicken, season it with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s golden brown and no longer pink in the center (about 5-7 minutes). Add in the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking, and let that kitchen smell divine!
Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat, and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the chicken. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s all melted and creamy. If it seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Combine: Toss the drained pasta and broccoli into the skillet, ensuring everything is coated in that dreamy sauce. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings, maybe adding those red pepper flakes if you’re feeling a bit spicy!
Serve and Enjoy: Plate it up hot, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. Dinner is served!

Cooking Tips

Make It Your Own: Don’t have chicken? Substitute it with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Don’t Worry About Perfection: If your sauce looks a little lumpy, just remember—it’s all part of the magic! Plus, it’ll taste delicious.
One-Pan Wonder: You can turn this into a one-pan meal by sautéing everything in the same skillet. Less clean-up? Yes, please!

Personal Anecdote

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta became my go-to dish after that one stressful day when my kids had three sports practices, and I needed a meal that would make everyone smile. They devoured it with enthusiasm, and I just felt like a parenting rock star, all thanks to this easy recipe.

FAQs

Can I substitute heavy cream in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you’re looking for lighter options.

How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep it creamy.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy texture and familiar flavors make this pasta a hit with kids. Just watch out for the spice if they’re sensitive to heat!

If you’re loving the sound of this recipe, check out some of my other family favorites, like Quick One-Pot Beef Stroganoff or 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Shrimp. Your dinner options just got a serious upgrade!

Treat yourself to a weeknight dinner that’s not just a meal but a cozy moment of joy in your busy life. This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is sure to become a regular in your home, making your kitchen smell like heaven on a rainy day (or any day, really).

So grab your apron, flick on your favorite playlist, and let’s whip up some joy together!

For more recipes check my

Creamy Garlic Steak Pasta

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet