Name: Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz rigatoni or pasta of choice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 breasts chicken, cubed; 2 cups broccoli florets; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1.5 cups heavy cream; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 0.5 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of chicken, pasta, and vibrant broccoli in a luxuriously creamy sauce. Quick to prepare and absolutely delicious, this recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Did you know that pasta is one of the most flexible ingredients in cooking? You can dress it up or down, and it complements various other flavors beautifully.

Imagine the joy of gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing a warm meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Similar to our classic Spaghetti Carbonara, which many readers love, this pasta dish is equally family-friendly and satisfying. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the creamy goodness that awaits you with this recipe!

What is Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

So, what does “Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta” even mean? At its core, it’s a whimsical way to describe a comforting dish that brings together the best of two culinary worlds: creamy sauce and wholesome ingredients. Have you ever wondered why people rave about chicken and broccoli? It’s like the culinary equivalent of “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” This dish tends to win over not just gentlemen but anyone who loves a delicious, satisfying meal! Ready to let your taste buds explore this delectable creation? Then let’s go!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pasta Dish

There are three standout reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta:

Flavorful and Comforting: The creamy sauce envelopes every piece of pasta, delivering a luxurious bite that’s packed with flavor. The garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning enhance the richness, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch.
Budget-Friendly: Skip the restaurant and make this satisfying meal at home. It’s much more affordable, and you control the ingredients.
Toppings and Add-ins: The tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and sprinkling of Parmesan make this dish feel gourmet. You can even jazz it up with chili flakes or lemon zest for a personal twist.

If you enjoy a hearty Alfredo Pasta or a vibrant Penne alla Vodka, you’ll definitely want to explore this comforting pasta recipe as well. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Quick Overview

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is not just delicious; it’s also straightforward and satisfying. With only a little slicing, dicing, and simmering required, you can have this tasty meal ready in just about 30 minutes. The standout feature? A creamy sauce that turns simple ingredients into a rich culinary experience, paired perfectly with tender pasta for texture and warmth.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, you’ll need the following:

12 oz rigatoni or pasta of choice
2 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts, cubed
2 cups broccoli florets
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup chicken broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 7–9 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside.
Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add broccoli florets. Cook for 3–5 minutes until they turn bright green and become tender. Add a splash of broth if needed to help steam them.
Make the Cream Sauce
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for another minute to meld the flavors.
Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

What to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta With

This creamy pasta is delicious on its own, but a few simple sides can elevate your meal. Try it with warm garlic bread to soak up the sauce or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness. A glass of white wine—like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio—pairs beautifully, or opt for sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Chicken Pasta

Protein Swaps: Don’t have chicken? Turkey, shrimp, or even tofu work just as well.
Broccoli Options: Frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh—just steam it before adding to the skillet.
Simmer Slowly: Let the cream simmer gently to avoid curdling and ensure a rich, smooth sauce.
Pasta Types: Rigatoni is ideal, but penne, rotini, or even fettuccine all work well too.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? You’re in luck! This dish stores beautifully:

Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the creamy consistency.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! This recipe works well with any gluten-free pasta of your choice.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a favorite with kids.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes—just prepare the full dish, cool it completely, and refrigerate. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich creaminess, coupled with the freshness of broccoli and savory chicken, creates a dish that family and friends will rave about. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or hosting a casual get-together, this pasta will never disappoint. Try it tonight and bring a bit of creamy joy to your dinner table!