The ultimate comfort dish, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is rich, cheesy, and comes together in just 30 minutes. A perfect weeknight dinner, it’s packed with tender chicken, bright green broccoli, and a luscious garlic cream sauce that hugs every bite of pasta. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a satisfying, cozy meal that’s both quick and indulgent. It also allows room for customization – try adding mushrooms, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or swapping in your favorite pasta. You can’t go wrong with this classic combo!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
-
1 1/4 cups chicken stock
-
1 cup single cream (or half-and-half)
-
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
-
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
-
250g (9 oz) pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
-
2 cups broccoli florets
-
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
-
Cook the pasta according to package directions. Add broccoli florets in the last 2-3 minutes of boiling. Drain and set aside.
-
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
-
In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds), then add Italian seasoning and flour. Stir to create a roux.
-
Gradually whisk in chicken stock, followed by cream and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle simmer.
-
Add chili flakes if using, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.
-
Return cooked chicken to the pan, along with drained pasta and broccoli. Toss to combine and coat everything with the sauce.
-
Garnish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 545 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Beloved Classic with a Healthy Twist
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a staple comfort food that never goes out of style. The origins of this dish trace back to Italian-American cuisine, where the idea of combining rich Alfredo-style sauces with tender proteins and vegetables took hold in home kitchens and restaurants alike. Over the years, it has become a go-to meal for busy families, home cooks, and food lovers who want something hearty yet balanced.
What sets this recipe apart is its fusion of classic flavors—creamy, garlicky sauce paired with savory chicken and the vibrant crunch of broccoli. It’s a familiar meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy, making it perfect for both casual weeknights and relaxed dinner parties.
Balanced Nutrition in Every Bite
While it’s undeniably comforting and flavorful, this dish also brings impressive nutritional value to the table. Lean chicken breast is a fantastic source of protein, which helps with muscle repair, energy levels, and keeping you full for longer. Broccoli, often called a “superfood,” is loaded with vitamins C, K, and fiber. It supports immune health, digestion, and even bone strength.
The pasta provides the necessary carbohydrates to fuel your body, especially when you choose whole grain or protein-enriched options. The addition of Parmesan cheese and cream adds richness, but used in moderation, these ingredients create a creamy texture without going overboard on calories.
Quick and Simple for Busy Lifestyles
One of the standout features of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, it fits effortlessly into a busy weeknight schedule. Everything can be cooked in one pan, minimizing cleanup and kitchen stress. The prep work is minimal—just a bit of chopping and boiling—and the rest practically cooks itself.
If you’re meal-prepping for the week, this dish also reheats well and can be stored for 3–4 days in the fridge. It’s a reliable option that maintains both taste and texture, even after reheating.
Customizable to Suit All Tastes
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. You can swap out the pasta for gluten-free, whole wheat, or even zucchini noodles. Want it spicier? Add extra chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Craving extra vegetables? Throw in mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach.
For a dairy-free option, you can replace the cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. The chicken can also be swapped for shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas depending on your dietary needs or what you have in the fridge.
Perfect for All Occasions
This dish isn’t just for rushed weeknights—it can also be dressed up for more formal settings. With just a few tweaks, like using grilled chicken or garnishing with fresh herbs and lemon zest, it transforms into a restaurant-quality entrée.
It’s also great for potlucks, family gatherings, and casual entertaining. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh side salad, and you’ve got a meal that satisfies both adults and kids alike.
Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is well-loved by children thanks to its creamy texture and familiar flavors. Parents love it because it’s an easy way to sneak in vegetables without complaints. The mild garlic and Parmesan sauce has just enough flavor to excite adult palates without overwhelming younger ones.
This makes it a great option for family dinners where everyone has different preferences. The simple ingredients and pleasing textures make it approachable and universally appealing.
Affordable and Pantry-Friendly
Another key benefit of this recipe is its affordability. Most of the ingredients—pasta, garlic, oil, flour, stock, and seasoning—are pantry staples. Even chicken and broccoli are economical, especially when bought in bulk or frozen. This means you can whip up this meal without an extra trip to the store or breaking your grocery budget.
It’s an ideal recipe for those looking to cook more at home without sacrificing flavor, nutrition, or time.
Why This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Stands Out
What makes this version of Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta truly special is the careful layering of flavor and texture. The garlic adds depth, the Dijon mustard introduces subtle complexity, and the chili flakes provide just a hint of heat that cuts through the creaminess. The result is a well-rounded, crave-worthy dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours—even though it’s ready in half an hour.
Using Parmesan instead of a heavier cream base also keeps the dish lighter while still satisfying. And the bright green broccoli not only brings color and crunch but also freshness to an otherwise creamy plate.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta isn’t just another pasta recipe—it’s a complete, balanced, and flavorful meal that hits all the right notes. It’s quick enough for weeknights, versatile enough for any dietary preference, and comforting enough to be considered a go-to classic in your household. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned kitchen pro, this dish offers reliability, ease, and deliciousness in every bite. By adding this to your cooking rotation, you’re not just making dinner—you’re creating a satisfying food experience that nourishes both the body and the soul.