Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe: Family Favorite

Crafting a delightful chicken and broccoli pasta recipe brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table.

Pasta lovers constantly seek simple yet satisfying meals that pack nutrition and flavor.

Homemade dishes like this combine lean protein with vibrant green vegetables for a balanced plate.

Creamy sauces can elevate basic ingredients into something extraordinary.

Quick cooking techniques make this meal perfect for busy weeknights when time feels scarce.

Fresh ingredients matter most in creating memorable dishes that people request again and again.

You’ll feel proud serving this delicious and nutritious meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Is So Comforting

• Craft a Nutritious Meal: Packed with lean protein from chicken and fiber-rich broccoli, this pasta dish delivers a balanced and wholesome dinner that supports healthy eating goals.
• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe transforms busy evenings into stress-free culinary experiences that anyone can master.
• Family-Friendly Flavor Fusion: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy Parmesan coating, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, making mealtime a delightful shared experience.
• Quick One-Skillet Wonder: Minimize cleanup and maximize convenience by preparing this complete meal in a single pan, perfect for households seeking practical and delicious solutions.

Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Pasta: A classic base that provides hearty texture and substance to the dish.
• Chicken: Lean protein that adds a savory and filling component to the recipe.
• Broccoli: Fresh green vegetable that brings nutrition and a slight crunch to the meal.

• Olive Oil: A healthy oil used for sautéing and adding rich flavor to the ingredients.
• Chicken Broth: A flavorful liquid that helps create a light sauce and enhances overall taste.

• Garlic, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that provide depth and enhance the natural flavors of chicken and vegetables.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sharp, salty cheese that adds a creamy and tangy finish to the pasta dish.

Instructions for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Get your favorite pasta and cook it according to the package directions. Once it’s tender and delicious, drain the water and set the pasta aside. This will be the base of our mouthwatering meal.

Step 2: Sizzle the Chicken

Heat up a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Make sure each piece is evenly cooked and gets that perfect sear.

Step 3: Introduce Garlic and Broccoli

• Minced garlic
• Chopped broccoli florets

Sauté everything together until the broccoli becomes tender and vibrant green, releasing its delightful flavors.

Step 4: Create a Flavorful Broth

Pour chicken broth into the skillet and let it simmer gently. This will help blend all the delicious flavors and create a light, tasty sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Skillet Mixture

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta gets coated with the savory chicken and broccoli mixture.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste. Give it a final gentle stir.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Plate your chicken and broccoli pasta while it’s hot. Enjoy this comforting and nutritious meal straight from the skillet to the table.

Pro Tips for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Choose whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrition boost.
• Slice chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
• Steam broccoli separately for crispier vegetables if you prefer more texture.
• Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version of the dish.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content and create a healthier meal option.

Variations for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Spicy Southwest Chicken Pasta: Replace broccoli with roasted bell peppers and add chili powder, cumin, and jalapeños for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Pasta: Incorporate fresh basil, oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes. Swap Parmesan for crumbled feta cheese and add a splash of lemon juice.
• Creamy Alfredo Chicken Pasta: Transform the dish by adding heavy cream and cream cheese. Reduce chicken broth and create a rich, velvety sauce with extra garlic and Italian herbs.
• Pesto Chicken Pasta: Substitute chicken broth with prepared basil pesto. Mix in some spinach leaves and top with toasted pine nuts for extra texture and nutty flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Pair with Crisp Chardonnay: Select a light, unoaked Chardonnay with citrusy notes that complements the chicken's mild flavor and cuts through the creamy Parmesan cheese.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Create a crunchy side of toasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious chicken broth and add extra texture to the meal.
• Match with Fresh Arugula Salad: Toss a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a peppery, bright contrast to the rich pasta dish.
• Balance with Pinot Grigio: Choose a clean, refreshing Pinot Grigio that enhances the broccoli's green notes and provides a light, palate-cleansing finish.

Storage Advice for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Transfer pasta to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing broccoli as it may become mushy when thawed.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little chicken broth or water to restore moisture. Stir gently until heated evenly.

FAQs for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook quickly and evenly, providing lean protein that absorbs flavors well.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative. Just thaw and drain excess water before adding to the skillet to prevent the dish from becoming watery.

• How can I make this pasta more nutritious?

Add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or use whole wheat pasta for increased fiber and nutrients. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for added nutrition and flavor.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This pasta stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats easily, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time for quick weeknight meals.

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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4.9 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta delivers a comforting meal packed with wholesome ingredients and delightful flavors. Simple weeknight dinners become extraordinary when you combine tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly al dente pasta in one satisfying dish.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) chicken breast, diced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Base and Cooking Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) pasta
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta in boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature, sauté chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes.
3. Introduce minced garlic and fresh broccoli florets into the skillet, stirring continuously to prevent burning and cook until broccoli becomes vibrant green and slightly tender, around 3-4 minutes.
4. Stream chicken broth into the skillet, allowing ingredients to simmer and meld flavors for 2-3 minutes, creating a light sauce.
5. Gently fold reserved pasta into the skillet, ensuring even coating with sauce and ingredients, tossing carefully to distribute evenly.
6. Generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, then season with kosher salt and cracked black pepper to enhance overall taste profile.
7. Transfer to serving plates immediately while piping hot, ensuring optimal flavor and texture enjoyment.

Notes

• Customize pasta thickness based on personal preference, choosing whole wheat or gluten-free options for dietary needs.
• Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
• Prevent overcooking broccoli by maintaining crisp texture and vibrant green color through quick sautéing.
• Enhance flavor profile by adding red pepper flakes, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 330 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 290 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg