Imagine a plate piled high with tender chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and a deliciously creamy sauce that clings to perfectly cooked pasta. This is the magic of chicken and broccoli pasta, where every bite sings with flavor and comfort. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, pulling you in like a siren’s call, promising an experience that warms the soul.
This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s a delightful memory-maker. Picture family gatherings where laughter fills the air as everyone digs into their plates, or cozy nights in when you need a little pick-me-up. Chicken and broccoli pasta is versatile enough for any occasion, guaranteeing to deliver joy in every forkful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The flavor profile balances rich creaminess with fresh veggies for a delightful dish
- Visually appealing with its bright colors, it’s sure to impress at any table
- Perfect for meal prep or enjoying as a comforting family dinner
When I first made this chicken and broccoli pasta for my friends, their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning—truly unforgettable!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are perfect for serving four hungry guests.
Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets; they add color and crunch.
Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Opt for your favorite type; just ensure it cooks al dente.
Heavy Cream: For that luscious sauce that makes everything come together.
Garlic: Fresh cloves are best to infuse the dish with rich flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated on top for an irresistible finishing touch.
Olive Oil: A drizzle adds flavor while cooking the chicken perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all flavors in the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make chicken and broccoli pasta
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare everything else.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside.
Add Garlic & Broccoli: Add minced garlic to the skillet once the chicken is cooked. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant before adding chopped broccoli florets; cook until they turn bright green.
Prepare the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly to combine with chicken and broccoli. Let it simmer gently until it thickens slightly after about 3-4 minutes.
Toss in Pasta & Cheese: Add cooked pasta into the skillet along with grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until well-coated and creamy; taste for seasoning adjustments.
Serve Hot & Enjoy!: Spoon generous portions onto plates or into bowls. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top if desired—and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!
This chicken and broccoli pasta recipe not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes connections through shared meals filled with laughter and love!
You Must Know
- Cooking chicken and broccoli pasta is a great way to sneak in veggies
- The golden, aromatic chicken and tender broccoli create a dish that’s both satisfying and healthy
- Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s quick to whip up yet impressive enough for guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors, then boil the pasta while preparing a quick sauce with garlic and broccoli for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor kick. A sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate the whole dish!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh broccoli for vibrant color and crunch
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente holds better with sauce
- Season your chicken well—salt makes all the difference!
Cooking this chicken and broccoli pasta reminds me of family dinners where everyone gathered around, sharing stories between bites. It’s amazing how food brings people together.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli for chicken and broccoli pasta?
Yes, but fresh broccoli offers better texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat!
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne or rotini hold sauce perfectly in every bite.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy chicken and broccoli pasta that’s perfect for any occasion. This delightful dish features tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente pasta enveloped in a luscious sauce, making it a family favorite that warms the heart and satisfies hunger. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Add Garlic & Broccoli: Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add chopped broccoli; cook until bright green.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring to combine with chicken and broccoli. Let simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss in Pasta & Cheese: Add cooked pasta and grated Parmesan to the skillet, stirring until well-coated and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve Hot: Spoon onto plates or bowls, sprinkle with more Parmesan if desired, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider substituting chicken with shrimp or incorporating sun-dried tomatoes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat on low heat with a splash of broth.
