Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe

This rich savory Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is made with chicken breast, fresh broccoli, and parmesan cheese and ready in 30 minutes. Tossing the hot noodles directly into the bubbling garlic cream sauce creates a thick coating that clings to every bite. I make this on busy weeknights when I want something comforting but fast.

Why This Classic Works

I used to struggle with cream sauces splitting or turning watery. The trick is to let the liquid reduce slightly before adding the cheese off the heat.

Cooking the broccoli in the same pot as the pasta saves time and dishes. It also ensures the vegetables are perfectly tender-crisp without overcooking.

Jump to Recipe

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

How To Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the penne in salted boiling water according to package directions, adding the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium, add minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine and Coat: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until smooth. Fold in the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken until well coated.

Recipe Tips

• Reserve pasta water: Keep a splash of the starchy water to thin out the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
• Cut uniform pieces: Chop the chicken and broccoli into similar sizes so everything cooks evenly.

What To Serve With Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Serve this hearty pasta with a simple side salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread is also a great option for wiping up any leftover cream sauce on the plate.

How To Store

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring the cream sauce back together. I do not recommend freezing this dish as the cream sauce can separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the sauce. You can also drop it into the boiling pasta water for just 1 minute.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch works. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great substitute. They stay very tender during cooking and resist drying out.

Why did my sauce curdle?

Adding cold cream to a hot pan or boiling the cheese rapidly can cause dairy to split. Always add cheese off the heat to keep the sauce smooth.

Nutrition

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Total Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
• Protein: 38 g

Try More Recipes:

• Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
• Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Chicken Sausage Zucchini Pasta Recipe