Name: Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces; 2 tbsp butter (plus more as needed); 3 cups broccoli florets; 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or preferred shape); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or Italian seasoning

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This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that comes together in one skillet for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and pasta are all coated in a rich, buttery sauce that feels indulgent but is simple enough to make any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and ease. The combination of chicken and broccoli is a classic that never fails, and when it’s all wrapped up in a creamy, buttery sauce with pasta, it’s pure comfort in a bowl. It’s quick, filling, and family-friendly, which makes it one of my go-to dinners when I want something hearty but hassle-free. Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
Butter
Broccoli florets
Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
Garlic (minced)
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or Italian seasoning

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package directions. I add the broccoli during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking so it becomes tender-crisp. Then I drain both and set them aside.
While the pasta cooks, I cut the chicken breasts into bite-size pieces and season them with salt and pepper.
I heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the chicken until golden and cooked through. I remove it and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I add a little more butter if needed and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
I pour in the cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Then I stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
I return the chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce.
I finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes or lemon zest if I want extra flavor, then serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

When I want a lighter version, I use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. For a gluten-free option, I use gluten-free pasta. I’ve also added mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for more depth, and sometimes I use rotisserie chicken to save time.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I use frozen broccoli all the time. I add it directly to the boiling pasta water during the last few minutes of cooking—no need to thaw.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

I like using short pasta like penne, rotini, or bowties because they hold the sauce well. But fettuccine or spaghetti also work beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep everything ahead and store it separately. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat the sauce and toss it all together for a fresh finish.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If I want a thicker sauce, I let it simmer a few extra minutes to reduce, or I add a little more Parmesan cheese. A teaspoon of flour whisked into the butter before adding cream also helps thicken it.

Can I use other vegetables?

Definitely. I’ve used peas, spinach, zucchini, or even asparagus depending on the season and what I have in the fridge.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is everything I want in a quick, comforting dinner—creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein and veggies. Whether I’m feeding a family or just craving something rich and satisfying, this dish always delivers. It’s easy to customize, and it makes great leftovers too, which means it’s staying in my dinner rotation for good.