Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a delicious and easy meal that combines the goodness of lean chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce. This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with protein and nutrients, making it a well-rounded and satisfying option for dinner. Whether you are looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish that will impress guests, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta fits the bill perfectly. The creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked broccoli, brings all the elements of a hearty meal together in a way that’s both delicious and wholesome.

This recipe can be easily customized to suit different preferences, with the option to adjust the creaminess or spice level according to your liking. It’s a simple, quick-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy families or anyone who wants a flavorful meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Best of all, it’s a one-pan dish that makes cleanup easy and hassle-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is an ideal weeknight dinner because it is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken and crunchy broccoli mixed with pasta makes for a well-balanced meal. The rich, creamy sauce elevates the dish, giving it a comforting feel without being overly heavy. It’s the perfect recipe for those who love creamy pasta dishes but want something a little lighter than traditional Alfredo.

This dish also offers plenty of room for customization. Whether you want to add extra vegetables, switch up the pasta, or add a bit of spice, this recipe can easily be tailored to your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy, thanks to its mild flavors and satisfying ingredients.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
Cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Grated Parmesan cheese
Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

There are plenty of ways to tweak this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta to suit your taste or dietary preferences:

Add More Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the nutrient content of the dish.
Use Different Cheese: Swap the Parmesan for other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Swap Protein: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein source.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
Use a Lighter Sauce: If you want a lighter version of the sauce, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even low-fat milk for a less rich option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by dicing the chicken breasts and steaming or blanching the broccoli florets. Cook the pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add the heavy cream (or half-and-half) to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sauce thickens slightly and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Broccoli

Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and steamed broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve the Chicken and Broccoli Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cook Pasta Al Dente: For the best texture, cook the pasta until just al dente so that it doesn’t become too soft when combined with the sauce.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds more depth of flavor to the dish, so try to avoid using pre-minced garlic.
Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, reduce the amount of heavy cream or replace it with half-and-half or low-fat milk.
Reserve Pasta Water: Save a bit of the pasta water before draining it. This can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Add Extra Cheese: For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the dish right before serving.

How to Serve

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a variety of side dishes to round out your dinner:

Garlic Bread: Serve alongside a warm loaf of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans are a great complement to this dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a small amount of cream or milk to restore its creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and broccoli ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply heat them and add to the sauce.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh broccoli. Be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pasta.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use non-dairy milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also substitute the cream with coconut milk for a creamy consistency.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, rotini, fusilli, or penne. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

6. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, this dish can easily be customized with additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.

7. How can I make this recipe lighter?

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk for the heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese used.

8. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

9. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and can be used instead of cooking fresh chicken.

10. How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy pasta for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please. With its simple ingredients and quick prep time, it’s a dish you can enjoy making again and again. Plus, with so many variations and ways to customize it, you’ll never get bored of this hearty, comforting meal. Give it a try, and discover how easy and delicious weeknight dinners can be!