Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

 

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: A Comforting Classic That Never Fails

If you’re searching for a dish that checks all the boxes—creamy, savory, hearty, and wholesome—then look no further than this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta enveloped in a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with weeknight simplicity. It’s the kind of meal that pleases picky eaters, satisfies comfort food cravings, and gets rave reviews every single time.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or even cozy date nights in. And the best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

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Ingredients & Their Purpose

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and nutritional balance:

Spaghetti or Pasta of Choice – The foundation of the dish, providing a satisfying bite and soaking up the creamy sauce. Use penne, fettuccine, or rotini for a twist.

Chicken Breast (Cooked and Diced) – Adds lean protein and hearty flavor. Diced chicken cooks quickly and distributes evenly throughout the pasta.

Fresh Broccoli Florets – Bring color, crunch, and nutritional value. Steamed just right, they contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Heavy Cream – The base of our luxurious, velvety sauce. Its richness gives the dish that indulgent mouthfeel.

Chicken Broth – Infuses the sauce with savory depth, preventing it from becoming too thick or bland.

Parmesan Cheese (Grated) – The star of the sauce. It melts into the cream, creating a cheesy, nutty finish.

Garlic (Minced) – A flavor booster that elevates the entire dish with its aromatic punch.

Olive Oil or Butter – For sautéing and building flavor. Choose butter for a richer taste or olive oil for a lighter option.

Italian Seasoning (Optional) – Adds a fragrant, herby dimension to the dish.

Salt and Pepper to Taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti (or pasta of your choice) according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

2. Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Garlic and Broccoli

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the broccoli florets and a splash of chicken broth. Cover the skillet and steam for 3–5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and remaining chicken broth. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning (if using). Simmer the sauce gently over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the cheese melts completely.

5. Combine Everything

Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce is too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and freshly cracked pepper, as needed.

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Why This Recipe Is So Loved

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.

Balanced and Nutritious: A full meal with protein, carbs, and vegetables.

Kid-Approved: The creamy sauce and mild flavors win over even the pickiest eaters.

One-Skillet Option: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta

Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape better and prevents the dish from becoming mushy.

Use fresh Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt smoothly and can make the sauce gritty.

Steam, don’t boil, the broccoli. This preserves nutrients and prevents it from becoming waterlogged.

Deglaze the pan with a bit of chicken broth after cooking the chicken for an extra layer of flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with:

Garlic bread or crusty baguette to scoop up any extra sauce

A fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for balance

A glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect pairing

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Final Thoughts: Why You'll Make This Again and Again

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the kind of meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and consistently impressive—yet incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a quick dinner idea, this recipe is a go-to winner. With its creamy texture, savory chicken, and fresh bursts of broccoli, it’s a delicious combination that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Try it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

If you're r

eady for a meal that’s as easy as it is irresistible, bookmark this recipe now—your tastebuds will thank you!