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Creamy chicken broccoli pasta made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a rich creamy sauce. An easy and satisfying family dinner recipe ready in under 35 minutes.
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy chicken broccoli pasta is a classic comfort meal that combines hearty protein, vegetables, and pasta in a smooth and flavorful sauce. The broccoli adds freshness and texture while the creamy parmesan sauce ties everything together beautifully.
This recipe is:
- Quick and easy for busy nights
- Family-friendly and satisfying
- Packed with creamy garlic flavor
- Easy to customize with different pasta or vegetables
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt
For the Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Extra parmesan cheese
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Place the diced chicken in a bowl.
Season with:
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix well until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium.
Add butter to the same skillet.
Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps.
Add heavy cream and continue stirring until smooth.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in:
- Parmesan cheese
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Salt
- Chili flakes if desired
Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Add the drained pasta and broccoli.
Toss everything together until fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Cook for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors blend together.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat.
Top with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving.
Serve warm while the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
Adding broccoli during the last few minutes of pasta cooking keeps it bright green and slightly crisp.
Use Fresh Parmesan
Freshly grated parmesan melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
Reserve Pasta Water
Pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
Cook Chicken in Batches if Needed
Avoid overcrowding the skillet for better browning and flavor.
Variations
Add Mushrooms
Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for extra flavor.
Make It Spicy
Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use Different Pasta
Fettuccine, rigatoni, or bow tie pasta all work well.
Lighten the Sauce
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Freezing
Cream sauces may separate after freezing, so this recipe is best enjoyed fresh.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
This pasta pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed vegetables
- Crispy breadsticks
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Yes. Thaw and drain it first to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then cook the pasta fresh before serving.
What’s the Best Pasta for Cream Sauce?
Short pasta like shells, penne, or rotini holds creamy sauce very well.
Final Thoughts
Creamy chicken broccoli pasta is an easy, flavorful dinner that combines juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and rich parmesan cream sauce into one comforting meal. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.