The moment this creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta hits the table, the kitchen smells like garlic, roasted broccoli, and melted cheese swirling into silky sauce coated pasta that begs for just one more forkful.
I love making it on busy weeknights when I want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, and it is perfect for meal prep because the flavors meld beautifully over a few days.
SaveOne pot pasta, minimal cleanup, and the joy of hearing everyone at the table smile after the first bite makes this recipe a new family favorite you will want to return to again and again.
Chicken And Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep the chicken and broccoli
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, season lightly with salt and pepper, and chop the broccoli into bite sized florets. If using a mix of florets and stems, peel and slice the stems thinly.
- Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add the pasta, and cook until just al dente according to package directions. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sear the chicken
In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about five to seven minutes. Remove chicken to a plate.
- Sauté aromatics and broccoli
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and cook until translucent, then add the minced garlic and broccoli. Cook until the broccoli is bright green and tender crisp, about four to five minutes.
- Build the sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Let the mixture simmer gently until it begins to thicken.
- Combine cheese and pasta
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, then add the drained pasta back into the skillet along with the seared chicken. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce clings to the noodles.
- Add mozzarella and finish
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top, toss gently to combine, and let the heat melt the cheese until bubbly and golden in spots.
- Taste and adjust
Give the pasta a final taste, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. The sauce should be creamy, not stiff, and the broccoli should be tender but still have a touch of bite.
- Serve immediately
Divide the creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta among warm bowls, top with extra Parmesan or mozzarella if desired, and serve right away with crusty bread or a simple salad.
- Store leftovers properly
Cool the pasta to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Substitutions and variations
- Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a lower carb version
- Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer richer flavor
- Replace heavy cream with a mixture of milk and cornstarch for a lighter option
- Use any hard cheese like Gruyere in place of Parmesan
- Add sliced mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables
Chloe's tips
- Keep the heat at medium so the cream sauce simmers without scorching
- Do not overcook the pasta since it will finish cooking in the sauce
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt
- If the sauce thickens too much, thin it with a bit more chicken broth or pasta water
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed at first to develop a nice sear
How to store it
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days
- Reheat on low heat, stirring often, and add a splash of liquid to refresh the sauce
- Freeze without the mozzarella if you want to keep it for longer, adding cheese when reheating
Serving suggestions
Here is how to make each serving feel special and restaurant worthy.
- Plate the pasta high in the center to show off the vibrant broccoli
- Finish with a light crack of black pepper and a shower of fresh herbs
- Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal
- Serve in warm bowls to keep the pasta hot longer at the table
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this recipe gluten free
Yes, choose a gluten free pasta and verify that your chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten free, and the recipe will work beautifully.
Why is my sauce grainy
Heat the cream mixture gently and avoid boiling, and whisk in the cheese slowly over low heat to keep the sauce smooth.
Can I prep ahead for meal prep
Cook the pasta and chicken separately, store them in the fridge, and assemble and reheat with a splash of broth for best texture.
What if I do not have heavy cream
Use a mix of whole milk and a tablespoon of butter or cornstarch, or swap in full fat coconut milk for a dairy free version.
Let's get cooking!
This creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the kind of simple, satisfying dinner that turns an ordinary evening into a cozy celebration, so gather your ingredients, invite the people you love, and enjoy the comfort of homemade goodness together.
