Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, but this pasta is best served fresh. If preparing ahead, keep the sauce and pasta slightly loose because the sauce thickens as it cools.

How do I keep the Parmesan sauce smooth?

Keep the heat low when adding Parmesan and stir gradually. Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.

Can I make chicken broccoli pasta without heavy cream?

Yes. Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce. You can also use whole milk, although the finished sauce will be less rich and creamy.

What pasta is best for Chicken Broccoli Pasta?

Penne, rotini, rigatoni, and fettuccine are excellent choices. Short pasta shapes work especially well because they hold the creamy Parmesan sauce.

Can I use frozen broccoli for chicken broccoli pasta?

Yes. Frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and drain it first, or add it directly to the pasta water during the final few minutes of cooking.

Chicken Broccoli Pasta (Easy Creamy 30-Minute Dinner)

Description

This Chicken Broccoli Pasta is an easy 30-minute dinner made with tender seasoned chicken, fresh broccoli, pasta, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Everything is tossed together in a creamy homemade sauce for a comforting family meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 ounces penne pasta
Salt, for boiling water

Chicken

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Broccoli

3 cups fresh broccoli florets

Creamy Parmesan Sauce

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup reserved pasta water
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste

Garnish

Fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese
Red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

Cook the penne in salted water until al dente.
Add broccoli during the final 2 minutes of cooking.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook chicken in olive oil for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Remove chicken and melt butter in the same skillet.
Add garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream and gently simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Reduce heat and gradually stir in Parmesan.
Add pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet.
Toss until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Garnish with parsley and Parmesan.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Cook broccoli only until tender-crisp.
Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces.
Fresh Parmesan gives the smoothest sauce.
Don’t boil the cream.
Keep the heat low when adding Parmesan.
Reserve pasta water before draining.
Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini make easy additions.

Nutrition

Calories: 690
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 65g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 48g
Cholesterol: 145mg