Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: A Comforting Classic Loved by All

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a perfect choice. This creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal has been a favorite in many households for years. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just looking for a quick and filling dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.

With juicy chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a rich, buttery sauce, this dish delivers a wonderful balance of protein, veggies, and carbs. The best part? It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized to your taste.

Let’s dive into why this meal is so beloved, how to prepare it, and some tips to make it even better!

---

Why Everyone Loves Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This dish is a staple in kitchens worldwide because it’s:

✅ Easy to Make – You only need a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes.
✅ Nutritious & Balanced – With lean protein from chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and wholesome pasta, it’s a complete meal.
✅ Versatile – You can customize the flavors, swap ingredients, and make it healthier or creamier.
✅ Crowd-Pleaser – Both kids and adults love the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious meal:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
• 16 ounces pipe rigate pasta (or any short pasta like penne or rotini)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or more, if you love it extra cheesy!)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
• About 2 minutes before the pasta is fully cooked, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
• Drain the pasta and broccoli, then set aside.

(Pro tip: Rinse the pasta and broccoli under cold water briefly to stop the cooking process and keep the broccoli bright green.)

---

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter (or use olive oil).
• Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

---

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic.
• Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
• Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy, rich sauce.
• Add red pepper flakes (if using) for a bit of heat.

---

Step 4: Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet.
• Toss everything together so that the sauce evenly coats the pasta and chicken.
• Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

---

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chili flakes for an extra flavor boost.

Pair this meal with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete dinner experience.

---

Tips for the Best Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

🔹 Use Fresh Ingredients – Freshly grated Parmesan and fresh garlic make a big difference in flavor.
🔹 Don’t Overcook the Broccoli – Adding it to the pasta water in the last 2 minutes keeps it vibrant and slightly crisp.
🔹 Make it Lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk, and use whole-wheat pasta.
🔹 Add More Protein – Toss in grilled shrimp or bacon for extra flavor.
🔹 Make it Extra Cheesy – Stir in mozzarella or cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy, gooey texture.
🔹 Spice it Up – If you love spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

---

Variations to Try

• Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo – Swap the sauce for Alfredo by adding more Parmesan and a touch of cream cheese.
• Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – Stir in a few spoonfuls of pesto sauce for a herby twist.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – Add fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, zesty kick.
• Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – Mix in some marinara sauce for a creamy tomato-based version.

No matter which variation you choose, this dish is guaranteed to be delicious and satisfying!

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.

Can I Freeze It?

Yes, but keep in mind that creamy sauces can separate slightly when frozen. If freezing, do so without the cheese, then add fresh cheese when reheating.

Can I Use Different Pasta?

Absolutely! While pipe rigate, penne, or rotini work best, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even whole-wheat pasta.

How Can I Make It Healthier?

• Use whole-wheat pasta
• Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light milk
• Add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms

---

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a dish that truly has it all – flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy meal, this recipe is a must-try.

With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked broccoli, it’s no surprise that this dish has become a staple in so many kitchens. Plus, with all the ways to customize it, you can make it as light, cheesy, spicy, or garlicky as you like.

Try this recipe today, and enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying!

Print