Introduction
Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner—easy, rich, and full of flavor. In under 30 minutes, this one-pan dish combines juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and al dente pasta in a velvety cream sauce. From the first bite, creamy chicken and broccoli pasta delivers comfort and balance with every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and ready in 30 minutes
Creamy sauce with real ingredients
Balanced with protein and vegetables
Family-friendly and easy to customize
Feels gourmet but made with pantry staples
Recipe Origins
This recipe is inspired by classic Italian-American comfort food. Combining creamy pasta with tender chicken and green vegetables is a staple in home kitchens across the U.S. Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta captures that tradition while offering a faster, fresher one-pan version perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 head broccoli cut into florets
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
10.5 oz long-cut pasta
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
3/4 cup chicken stock
1.8 oz freshly grated Parmesan
2 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1- Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces. Cut broccoli into small, uniform florets.
2- In a bowl, combine lemon juice, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss chicken in the marinade. Let sit briefly.
3- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4- Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
5- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken stock and cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
6- Return chicken to the skillet and add broccoli. Stir in pasta. Add Parmesan and mix gently. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 620
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 670mg
Quick Facts
Preparation Time: 10 min
Cooking Time: 30 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: ⭐⭐
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store pasta and sauce separately if possible.
Do not overcook the broccoli if freezing to preserve its texture.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread or focaccia
Mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted Brussels sprouts
Lemon-thyme asparagus
Buttered peas or grilled corn
Common Mistakes
Overcooking pasta: causes a soft, mushy texture
Skipping marinade: reduces chicken flavor depth
Adding cold cream: risks splitting the sauce
Using pre-shredded cheese: affects smoothness
Not tasting before serving: may result in underseasoned sauce
Recipe Variations
Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond cream
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta
Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella or cheddar
Veggie Change: Replace broccoli with asparagus or spinach
Add-ins: Sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts for flavor and texture
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prep ahead and combine right before serving for best texture. - What pasta shapes work best?
Long pasta like fettuccine or linguine coat well in the sauce. - How do I make it lighter?
Use half cream and half stock or milk to reduce richness. - Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and drain before adding to avoid watering down the sauce. - How can I boost the flavor?
Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano at the end.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is a deliciously easy dinner you’ll come back to again and again. It’s rich, balanced, and endlessly adaptable with seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for the family or craving comfort in a bowl, this dish is always a win.
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