Description
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a mouthwatering, creamy, and comforting dish made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce — a quick and satisfying dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions, adding broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning to taste with extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Substitute shrimp or turkey for the chicken for variation.
- To make it extra cheesy, add shredded mozzarella or provolone.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of milk or broth.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American