Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort-food dinner! Tender, juicy chicken pieces and fresh broccoli are tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Every bite is packed with cheesy goodness, savory garlic, and delicious flavors. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that the whole family will love, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340 g) penne or fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
  For Garnishing:
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons extra grated Parmesan cheese
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  Instructions
  Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot.

Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer.

Cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking continuously.

Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps.

Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Reduce the heat to low.

Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.

Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.

Add the drained pasta and broccoli.

Gently toss everything together until the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are evenly coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce.

Simmer gently for 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat.

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Serve immediately while warm, creamy, and delicious!
Helpful Tips for Perfect Results

• Cook pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy.
• Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Avoid boiling the cream sauce after adding Parmesan to prevent separation.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Add broccoli during the final minutes of pasta cooking to keep it tender but slightly crisp.
• For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
  Nutrition Information
  Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings.
• Calories: 540 kcal
• Protein: 38 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Cholesterol: 105 mg
  Nutrition values are approximate and depend on the ingredients and brands used.
  Nut Information & Allergen Details
  Does this recipe contain nuts?

The standard recipe does not contain peanuts or tree nuts.

• Peanuts: None included.
• Almonds: Not included.
• Walnuts: Not included.
• Pecans: Not included.
• Cashews: Not included.
• Pistachios: Not included.
• Hazelnuts: Not included.
• Tree Nuts: None intentionally added.
• Dairy: Contains butter, milk, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
• Gluten: Contains wheat flour and regular pasta.
• Eggs: Some pasta varieties contain eggs; check the package.
• Soy: Check packaged pasta and cheese labels for possible soy ingredients.
• Sesame: Not included in the standard recipe.
  Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a certified gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-free: Use unsweetened dairy-free milk, dairy-free cream, and suitable dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.
• Egg-free: Choose egg-free pasta.
• Nut-free: The standard recipe contains no nuts, but verify all ingredient labels and cross-contamination warnings.
  Low-Sodium Tip: Use unsalted butter, low-sodium Parmesan, and reduce added salt. Choose fresh chicken rather than pre-seasoned chicken.
  Questions & Answers (Q&A)
  Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and provide extra juiciness and flavor.

Q2: Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and drain it first, or add it during the final minutes of pasta cooking.

Q3: What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, rotini, fettuccine, and bow-tie pasta are all excellent choices because they hold the creamy sauce nicely.

Q4: How do I make the sauce thicker?

Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few additional minutes before adding the pasta. You can also add a little extra Parmesan cheese.

Q5: How can I make the sauce thinner?

Add reserved pasta water or a small amount of warm milk until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.

Q6: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the broccoli and pasta ahead. Store separately and combine with freshly warmed sauce before serving for the best texture.

Q7: How do I prevent the Parmesan sauce from becoming grainy?

Use freshly grated Parmesan and add it over low heat. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese.

Q8: Can I add mushrooms to this pasta?

Yes! Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic or cook them before making the sauce for extra savory flavor.

Q9: How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Q10: Can I freeze creamy chicken and broccoli pasta?

Freezing is possible, but cream-based sauces may separate after thawing. For the best texture, enjoy it freshly prepared or refrigerated.

Q11: Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a little hot sauce to the chicken seasoning.

Q12: Is this recipe suitable for a high-protein diet?

Yes! Chicken, Parmesan, and milk provide protein. You can use protein-enriched pasta to increase the protein content further.

Q13: Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes! Replace heavy cream with additional whole milk. The sauce will be slightly lighter but still delicious.

Q14: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Add shredded or diced cooked chicken when combining the pasta and sauce. Heat thoroughly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy chicken and broccoli pasta with:

• Fresh Mediterranean garden salad.
• Garlic butter bread.
• Roasted asparagus.
• Lemon herb green beans.
• Caprese salad with tomatoes and mozzarella.
• Roasted zucchini.
• Fresh cucumber and tomato salad.
  Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.