Description
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta all tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s a hearty, balanced meal that’s quick and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or preferred type)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon zest or juice (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions, adding broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook chicken with salt and pepper until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more oil or butter. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat in sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or lemon zest if desired.
Notes
- Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood version.
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Use half-and-half or a milk-flour mix for a lighter sauce.
- Stir in cream cheese or mascarpone for added richness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
