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Home » Dinner » Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Published: Mar 19, 2025 by olivia olivia

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and pasta in a savory, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Best of all, it’s made in one pot for easy cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Nutritious & Balanced: Packed with protein, veggies, and hearty pasta.
  • Customizable: Use your favorite pasta or sauce.
  • Easy Cleanup: One-pot dish means less mess.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need (for full measurements, see the recipe card below):

  • Chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • Broccoli florets
  • Pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Chicken broth or cream
  • Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add pasta and cook according to package directions.
  • In the last 3-4 minutes, add the broccoli.
  • Drain together and set aside.
A steaming plate of creamy chicken and broccoli pasta, featuring tender chicken pieces, fresh green broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce.

2. Cook the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and fully cooked (6-7 minutes).
  • Season with salt and pepper.

3. Make the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant (1 minute).
  • Pour in chicken broth or cream and stir.
  • Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
A skillet filled with creamy pasta, tender chunks of chicken, and perfectly cooked broccoli, creating a simple yet satisfying dinner.

4. Combine Everything

  • Add pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
  • Toss everything together until well combined.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese (optional).
A nutritious pasta dish with lean chicken, sautéed broccoli, and a light garlic butter sauce, served on a rustic white plate.

5. Serve & Enjoy

  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

  • For a creamy sauce, use half-and-half or heavy cream.
  • Short on time? Use rotisserie chicken.
  • Want extra flavor? Add red pepper flakes.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

  • Add more veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, zucchini.
  • Switch the protein: Use turkey, shrimp, or tofu.
  • Make it healthier: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
  • Make it cheesy: Add mozzarella or cheddar.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
  • Enjoy with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.

Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat with a splash of water or broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe works well with penne, rotini, spaghetti, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half, whole milk, Greek yogurt, or cream cheese for a creamy texture with fewer calories.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Store the pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth.

What protein alternatives can I use instead of chicken?

Try shrimp, tofu, turkey, or chickpeas for a different twist.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or clumpy?

Add a splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or broth to keep the sauce smooth.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.

Related Recipes

Check out these delicious one-pot meals:

  • One-Pot Chicken Orzo

Conclusion

This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a go-to meal for busy nights! It’s packed with flavor, protein, and veggies, making it a well-rounded, family-friendly dish. Try this recipe, customize it, and let me know how you liked it!

Print
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A delicious bowl of creamy pasta with crispy golden chicken bites, fresh green broccoli, and melted cheese.

How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta


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  • Author: olivia olivia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
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Description

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and pasta in a savory, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup chicken broth or cream
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions. In the last 3-4 minutes, add the broccoli. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and fully cooked (6-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant (1 minute). Pour in chicken broth or cream and stir. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
  4. Add pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. Stir in Parmesan cheese (optional).
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For a creamy sauce, use half-and-half or heavy cream. Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version. Add red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of water or broth.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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Hi, I’m Olivia! The heart and hands behind this blog, inspired by the love and warmth of my family’s kitchen. Cooking has always been my way of bringing people together, and here, I share recipes that are simple, delicious, and filled with heart. Let’s make something special together!

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