If you’re looking for a quick, creamy, and satisfying meal, this creamy chicken & broccoli pasta is the perfect choice. It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan sauce, making it a balanced and comforting dish for any occasion.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, as it comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal prep. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in veggies while keeping the dish flavorful and hearty. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this pasta will quickly become a favorite.

Pasta has been a staple in cuisines worldwide for centuries. If you’re curious about the different types of pasta and their history, check out this Wikipedia guide on pasta. The key ingredients—chicken and broccoli—are also packed with nutrients. Learn more about the health benefits of broccoli in this detailed Wikipedia article.

Stay tuned as we dive into why this dish is a must-try and how you can make it effortlessly! 🍽️✨

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken & broccoli pasta isn’t just delicious—it’s also a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Here’s why you’ll love making it:

✅ Quick & Easy

Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.
Minimal prep work required—just chop, cook, and mix!

🥦 Healthy & Nutritious

Chicken provides lean protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
Broccoli is loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Learn more about its health benefits from Wikipedia.
A balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats for a well-rounded meal.

🧀 Creamy & Flavorful

Made with a rich Parmesan sauce that’s smooth, cheesy, and delicious.
A touch of garlic and Italian seasoning enhances the flavors.
Perfectly coats the pasta, giving every bite a satisfying taste.

🔄 Customizable & Versatile

Works with different types of pasta—penne, fettuccine, whole wheat, or gluten-free.
Easily substitute the protein (try shrimp, turkey, or tofu for variety).
Adjust the creaminess by swapping heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk.

Looking for more easy pasta recipes? Explore this Pinterest board filled with healthy pasta recipe ideas. You’ll find tons of creative variations to try!

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this creamy chicken & broccoli pasta, you’ll need simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what goes into this dish and how you can customize it to your taste.

Pasta Choices

The type of pasta you choose can affect the texture and overall experience of this dish.

Best options: Penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or rotini work well for holding onto the sauce.
Healthier alternatives: Whole wheat pasta adds fiber, while chickpea or lentil pasta increases protein.
Gluten-free choices: Opt for brown rice pasta or quinoa pasta if needed.

For a deeper dive into different pasta types and their uses, check out this Wikipedia page on pasta.

Protein: Choosing the Right Chicken

Chicken breast is the best choice for this recipe because it’s lean and high in protein. However, here are some alternatives:

Chicken thighs: Juicier and more flavorful but slightly higher in fat.
Rotisserie chicken: A great shortcut if you’re short on time.
Alternative proteins: Try shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.

Learn more about the nutritional benefits of chicken in this Wikipedia article.

Vegetables: The Role of Broccoli

Broccoli is not only nutritious but also adds a vibrant color and slight crunch to the dish.

Health benefits: It’s packed with fiber, vitamins C & K, and antioxidants.
Best way to cook it: Blanching it in pasta water ensures it’s tender yet crisp.
Other vegetable options: Try spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for variety.

The Creamy Sauce Ingredients

A rich, velvety sauce is what makes this pasta so irresistible. Here’s what you need:

Heavy cream – Creates the creamy base. You can substitute with Greek yogurt, half-and-half, or coconut milk for a lighter option.
Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor. For other choices, try cheddar, mozzarella, or dairy-free cheese.
Olive oil & garlic – Enhances the overall taste with a hint of savory depth. Read more about olive oil’s benefits and why it’s a staple in cooking.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a bit of heat if you like a spicy kick.

Looking for inspiration on how to tweak this dish? Check out this Pinterest collection of comfort food pasta recipes for more creative ideas!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process. This recipe is designed to be quick, simple, and foolproof, ensuring you get a creamy and flavorful dish every time.

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta & Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Two minutes before the pasta is fully cooked, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
Once done, drain everything and reserve ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later.

💡 Why add broccoli to the pasta water? This method saves time and ensures the broccoli is perfectly tender-crisp without getting mushy.

For more tips on cooking different types of pasta, check out this Pinterest board on meal prep pasta dishes.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chicken pieces and season with:
- Salt & black pepper for balance.
- Paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Italian seasoning for added depth.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

💡 Pro Tip: To get the best sear on chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary!

Looking for more chicken-based pasta dishes? Explore this Pinterest collection of creamy chicken pasta recipes.

Step 3: Making the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in 1 ½ cups of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted.
Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional) for a bit of heat.
Stir occasionally until the sauce is smooth and thickened.

💡 Why use pasta water? Adding reserved starchy pasta water helps create a silky, restaurant-quality sauce that clings to the pasta.

If you’re interested in exploring dairy-free alternatives, check out this Pinterest board on dairy-free pasta recipes.

Step 4: Combining Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, followed by the drained pasta and broccoli.
Gently toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow all the flavors to meld.
Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Now that your pasta is ready, let’s explore different customization options to make this dish even more exciting! 🍝✨

Variations & Substitutions

One of the best things about creamy chicken & broccoli pasta is how versatile it is! Whether you want a healthier twist, extra spice, or a dairy-free version, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to your preference.

Healthier Version

If you’re looking to cut calories or make this dish more nutritious, try these swaps:

Use whole wheat pasta – Higher in fiber and nutrients.
Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt – Maintains creaminess with less fat and more protein.
Increase the veggies – Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra fiber and vitamins.
Reduce cheese – Use nutritional yeast or a smaller amount of Parmesan for a lighter option.

For more healthy pasta alternatives, check out this Pinterest board on healthy pasta recipes.

Spicy Version

Love a little heat? Try these spicy variations:

Double the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Sprinkle in cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Use spicy chicken sausage instead of regular chicken.

Extra Cheesy Version

For those who love ultra-creamy pasta, make it even cheesier with:

Mozzarella or cheddar cheese – Adds a gooey, melty texture.
Cream cheese – Makes the sauce even richer.
More Parmesan – Sprinkle extra on top before serving.

Learn more about the different types of cheese and their flavors in this Wikipedia article on Parmesan cheese.

Dairy-Free Version

Need to make this dish lactose-free or vegan? Try these substitutions:

Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast to maintain the cheesy flavor.
Use dairy-free butter and plant-based chicken alternatives.

Check out this Pinterest collection of dairy-free pasta recipes for more inspiration.

Low-Carb/Keto Version

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, try these adjustments:

Swap pasta for zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice.
Use heavy cream and extra cheese to keep the sauce thick and keto-friendly.
Add more protein and healthy fats like bacon or avocado.

Want more low-carb meal ideas? Explore this Pinterest board on low-carb pasta dishes.

With all these variations, you can make this dish perfectly suited to your taste! Next, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it for a complete meal. 🍽️✨

Serving Suggestions

Now that your creamy chicken & broccoli pasta is ready, it’s time to pair it with the perfect sides and garnishes to complete the meal! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving ideas will take your dish to the next level.

Best Side Dishes

Pair your pasta with light and flavorful sides to balance out the rich, creamy sauce:

Garlic Bread – A classic side that’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce. Try making it with olive oil instead of butter for a healthier twist.
Simple Side Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers enhance the meal’s nutritional value.
Bruschetta – Toasted bread with a tomato and basil topping adds a burst of fresh flavor.

For more quick and easy side dish ideas, check out this Pinterest board on healthy pasta side dishes.

Garnishing & Final Touches

The right toppings can enhance both the flavor and presentation of your pasta. Consider adding:

Extra Parmesan Cheese – For an added layer of cheesy goodness.
Fresh Basil or Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh herbs brings brightness and color.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Perfect for those who love a little heat.
Toasted Pine Nuts or Almonds – Adds a slight crunch and nutty flavor.

Wine Pairing Recommendations

If you’re serving this dish for a special occasion, pairing it with the right wine can elevate the experience:

White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creaminess.
Light Red Wine: A Pinot Noir or Merlot works well with the garlic and Parmesan flavors.
Rosé: If you prefer a more refreshing option, a dry rosé balances the dish beautifully.

With the perfect sides and pairings, your creamy chicken & broccoli pasta meal is now complete and restaurant-worthy! Up next, let’s go over how to store and reheat leftovers so you can enjoy this dish later. 🍷✨

How to Store & Reheat

Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, knowing the best way to store and reheat your creamy chicken & broccoli pasta will help maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Here’s everything you need to keep it fresh and creamy!

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Keep the pasta separate from the sauce if possible to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.

💡 Pro Tip: If storing for meal prep, divide the pasta into individual portions for easy grab-and-go meals!

Freezing Instructions

Can you freeze creamy pasta? Yes—but with a few adjustments!

Best method: Freeze only the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta.
How long? The sauce stays fresh for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
To thaw: Let it defrost in the fridge overnight, then reheat and mix with freshly cooked pasta.

Want more meal prep pasta ideas? Check out this Pinterest board for meal prep-friendly pasta dishes.

Reheating Tips

The key to reheating creamy pasta is to restore its sauce consistency without drying it out.

On the Stovetop (Best Method)

Add a splash of milk, broth, or cream to loosen the sauce.
Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
Cook until warmed through and creamy again.

In the Microwave (Quickest Method)

Place pasta in a microwave-safe bowl.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or broth and cover loosely.
Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully heated.

💡 Avoid overheating! Too much heat can cause the sauce to separate or become grainy.

Can You Eat It Cold?

Yes! This pasta makes a great cold pasta salad. Simply mix in a bit of extra olive oil or dressing before serving.

Now that you know how to store and reheat your pasta, let’s answer some common questions that people have about this recipe! 🍝✨

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about creamy chicken & broccoli pasta, based on what people also ask online.

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While this recipe works well with penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine, you can also use:

Whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
Gluten-free pasta like brown rice or quinoa pasta.
Low-carb alternatives such as zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

For more details on different pasta varieties, check out this Wikipedia page on pasta.

Q2: How do I make this dish healthier?

To make this pasta lighter but still creamy, try these swaps:

Use Greek yogurt or half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Choose lean proteins like grilled chicken breast or turkey.

Looking for more healthy pasta recipe ideas? Explore this Pinterest collection on healthy pasta dishes.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. Just be sure to:

Store the sauce separately if possible.
Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.

Q4: What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream or want a lighter alternative, try:

Greek yogurt – High in protein, tangy, and creamy.
Coconut milk – Adds a subtle sweetness and is dairy-free.
Cashew cream – A great vegan option.

Want more dairy-free pasta recipes? Check out this Pinterest board for dairy-free pasta ideas.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Some great veggie additions include:

Spinach – Wilts quickly and blends well with the sauce.
Mushrooms – Adds an earthy flavor.
Peas – A pop of sweetness and color.

For more inspiration, check out this Pinterest board on comfort food pasta dishes.

With these FAQs answered, let’s wrap things up with a final summary and key takeaways! 🍽️✨

Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy chicken & broccoli pasta is the ultimate quick and easy dinner! Made with tender, juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy family meal. Plus, it’s easily customizable—you can swap the pasta, add different proteins, or make it lighter with healthier ingredient options.

Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or a glass of white wine for a restaurant-quality meal at home. Try this delicious pasta tonight and let us know what you think! 🍝✨

Ingredients

Scale

For the pasta:

12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the sauce:

1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup pasta water (reserved)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. In the last two minutes of cooking, add the broccoli. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, mixing until the cheese is fully melted.

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add the drained pasta and broccoli. Stir everything together, adding some of the reserved pasta water if needed to reach the desired sauce consistency.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well coated in the sauce.

Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired

Notes

✔ Pasta Choice Matters – Use penne, fettuccine, or rotini for the best sauce coverage.

✔ Reserve Pasta Water – Adding a splash of pasta water helps create a silky, restaurant-quality sauce.

✔ Don’t Overcook the Broccoli – Add it in the last 2 minutes of boiling pasta to keep it tender-crisp.

✔ Customizable – Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or turkey, and add mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers for extra veggies.

✔ Make It Healthier – Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, whole wheat pasta, and less cheese for a lighter option.

✔ Storage & Reheating – Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.

✔ Meal Prep Friendly – You can make the sauce ahead of time and freeze it separately for up to 2 months.

This dish is easy to make and so satisfying—a guaranteed family favorite! 🍽️