Golden-seared chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all cloaked in a velvety garlic cream sauce—this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is pure comfort food with a touch of freshness. The juicy chicken brings savory depth while the broccoli adds color and crunch, and the sauce ties it all together with rich, creamy perfection. It’s the kind of dish that earns applause at the dinner table.

Ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for a casual dinner with friends, this recipe is a lifesaver for anyone craving something hearty and wholesome without the hassle. Whether you’re looking for new easy dinner ideas, a healthy twist on pasta, or just a quick one-pot meal, this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is ready to steal the spotlight.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Balanced Meal: Protein, veggies, and carbs in every bite.
Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters.
Customizable: Easily adaptable with gluten-free pasta, dairy alternatives, or added spice.
Perfect Texture: Creamy, yet light—never clumpy or overly rich.
Fast & Flavorful: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Importance)

Getting everything prepped and ready ensures this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta comes together seamlessly. Here’s what you’ll need to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable:

Tools & Equipment:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
This is where the magic happens. You’ll be browning the chicken, sautéing ingredients, and combining the sauce all in one. Choose a wide skillet to give your chicken space to sear instead of steam.
Medium or Large Pot
Essential for boiling the pasta and blanching the broccoli. Make sure it’s large enough so nothing sticks together and the pasta cooks evenly.
Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board
You’ll need a reliable knife to cube the chicken and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Precision matters when creating a balanced sauce—especially with broth, cream, and seasonings.
Strainer/Colander
A must-have for draining the cooked pasta and broccoli without losing any of that golden texture.
Tongs or Wooden Spoon
Use these for flipping chicken and mixing everything together gently.
Grater (optional)
If you’re using fresh Parmesan, a fine grater will make your dish sing.

Preparation Tips

Cut Ingredients Uniformly: Keep chicken cubes and broccoli florets similar in size for even cooking.
Pat the Chicken Dry: Helps you get that irresistible golden crust instead of soggy chicken.
Salt the Pasta Water: It’s your first layer of flavor—don’t skip it.
Blanch Broccoli Briefly: Just a couple of minutes in boiling water keeps it vibrant and tender-crisp.
Reserve Pasta Water: Save half a cup before draining—it can loosen the sauce and make it silkier.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente since it will cook a bit more once combined with the sauce.
Use Room-Temp Cream or Milk: Prevents curdling when added to the pan.

Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Everything about this dish is comforting, flavorful, and straightforward. Below is the full list of ingredients you’ll need to recreate this creamy and satisfying Chicken and Broccoli Pasta at home:

Main Ingredients:

2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized cubes
12 oz penne or rotini pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing the chicken)
2 tablespoons butter

Aromatics & Flavor Base:

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle kick)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Sauce Ingredients:

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded is best
¼ cup reserved pasta water (if needed, to thin the sauce)

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan, for sprinkling
Lemon zest (for a bright, fresh finish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Follow these simple steps to bring your creamy, dreamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta to life. Each phase builds flavor, texture, and that irresistible finish.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
In the last 2–3 minutes of pasta cooking, toss in the broccoli florets.
Once done, drain both pasta and broccoli together, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water.
Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
Sear for about 5–6 minutes, turning until golden and cooked through.
Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom to deglaze the pan.
Stir in the heavy cream and remaining Italian seasoning.
Simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it slightly thickens.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine

Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet.
Toss everything gently until well coated in the creamy sauce.
If needed, stir in reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time for a silkier texture.
Let it simmer for another minute to warm everything through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a touch of lemon zest.
Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, savory bite.

Notes

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is super flexible and can be adjusted based on dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are a few extra insights to help make it even better:

Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free penne or rotini and double-check your broth and cheese for gluten-containing additives.
Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk. You’ll still get creaminess without all the fat.
Protein Options: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
More Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Make It Spicier: Don’t be shy with the red pepper flakes if you love heat!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is easy, a few common missteps can affect the final outcome. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcooking the Pasta or Broccoli: Keep both al dente so they hold up in the creamy sauce.
Crowding the Chicken: Cook it in batches if needed. Crowding causes steaming, not searing.
Skipping Pasta Water: This starchy water helps loosen the sauce and improves its texture—don’t toss it all!
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It doesn’t melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents. Freshly grated Parmesan is best.
Letting the Cream Boil: Keep it at a gentle simmer to avoid separation or curdling.
Underseasoning: Taste as you go—broth, cheese, and cream can vary in salt levels.
Not Drying Chicken: Wet chicken won’t brown properly and can end up rubbery.
Forgetting Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or lemon zest elevates everything.

What to Serve With Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

While this dish is satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right sides can turn dinner into a truly memorable meal. Here are some excellent choices to complement the creamy, savory richness of your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta.

8 Recommendations

Garlic Bread
The classic companion—crusty on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
Simple Arugula Salad
Peppery greens tossed with lemon vinaigrette balance the richness of the pasta with freshness and acidity.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Their sweet-tart flavor contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Steamed Asparagus with Lemon
Light and slightly bitter, asparagus pairs well with the creaminess of the sauce.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a refreshing and colorful touch.
Bruschetta with Balsamic Glaze
Toasted baguette slices topped with tomato, basil, and a drizzle of glaze bring a burst of tang.
Sauteed Mushrooms
Earthy, umami-packed mushrooms enhance the overall savory flavor of the meal.
Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water
A crisp drink like Sauvignon Blanc or lemon-infused sparkling water will cleanse the palate and keep the meal light.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Chicken and Broccoli Pasta reheat beautifully—perfect for next-day lunches or meal prepping ahead of time. Here’s how to store it properly and keep all that creamy goodness intact.

Refrigeration

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
To reheat, use a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Freezing

While this pasta can be frozen, the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
If freezing, allow it to cool completely and place it in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stovetop with added liquid to refresh the texture.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings total):

Calories: 610
Protein: 38g
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 4g
Sodium: 720mg
Calcium: 25% of Daily Value
Iron: 15% of Daily Value

Note: Nutrition values can vary depending on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s tackle some of the most common questions home cooks have about Chicken and Broccoli Pasta—so you can cook it with full confidence and flexibility!

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Just thaw it and pat it dry before adding it during the last 1–2 minutes of pasta cooking. It won’t have quite the same crunch, but it works great in a pinch.

2. What’s the best pasta type for this recipe?

Short pastas like penne, rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli work best. Their ridges and shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or oat cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You may need to thicken the sauce with a bit of flour or cornstarch.

4. How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, especially after adding the cream. Also, use room-temperature dairy to prevent temperature shock.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can! Make it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

6. Is this dish spicy?

Only if you want it to be. The red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted entirely for a kid-friendly or milder version.

7. What protein alternatives work well?

Shrimp, turkey, ground chicken, tofu, or even leftover rotisserie chicken all work wonderfully. Adjust cooking times as needed.

8. Can I double this recipe?

Definitely. Just use a large enough pot and skillet, and taste as you go when seasoning. It’s a great option for batch cooking or feeding a crowd.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s a versatile, comforting, and crowd-pleasing meal that’s quick enough for busy weeknights and impressive enough for guests. The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli combine for the perfect bite every time.