Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Name: Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons salted butter; ½ onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken broth; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup milk; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 pound); ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving); 8-12 ounces dried penne pasta; 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from ½ a lemon); ⅓ cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

March 9, 2025

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Chicken Broccoli Pasta is one of those dishes that brings a wave of comfort with every bite. Picture this: rich, creamy sauce hugging tender pasta, complemented by juicy chicken and the freshness of vibrant broccoli. It’s not just a meal; it’s like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. You can whip this up quickly, making it a great choice for those nights when you want something nourishing but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s nutritious! Packed with protein and veggies, it satisfies your hunger while being a delicious family dinner option or a go-to for impressing guests. What’s more, this Chicken Broccoli Pasta is adaptable to fit many dietary preferences, so whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or looking for something with a twist, this recipe is worth a try!

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Comfort food with a creamy twist: There’s something about creamy pasta dishes that just feel like home. The richness of this Chicken Broccoli Pasta makes it a satisfying choice after a long day.
Quick and easy for busy weeknights: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Nutritious meal packed with protein and veggies: The combination of chicken and broccoli means you’re getting a hearty meal without compromising on health.
Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests: This recipe is perfect for any occasion, appealing to both kids and adults.
Versatile and adaptable for various dietary preferences: Whether you’re looking for gluten-free options or plant-based alternatives, this dish can be tailored to fit.

What is a Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chunks of chicken with bright broccoli florets and bites of pasta. It features a rich, creamy parmesan sauce that pulls everything together, creating a harmony of flavors. This dish is versatile, making it suitable for casual family meals or special occasions. It’s elegant enough to serve at a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to create this savory dish:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons salted butter
½ onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 pound)
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
8-12 ounces dried penne pasta
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from ½ a lemon)
⅓ cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

Prep the Chicken

Cut and Season the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-size chunks. This makes the chicken easier to cook and helps it absorb all the flavors. Sprinkle it with kosher salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This not only enhances the taste but also infuses the dish with a fantastic aroma as it cooks.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken, letting it cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring. This helps form a delicious golden brown crust. Then, flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re fully cooked. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pan, add butter, allowing it to melt and scrape up any delicious browned bits left from the chicken. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 30-60 seconds until they’re fragrant.

Make the Roux

Next, sprinkle flour over the buttery onion and garlic mixture. Cook and stir for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This roux will help thicken the sauce and give it a nice texture.

Add Liquids

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and a pinch of red pepper flakes while stirring continuously. This ensures everything becomes well blended. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together nicely.

Finish the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy blend that smells amazing!

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Boil the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a rapid boil. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt and the dried penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.

Add Broccoli

Here’s where it gets fun! With just 2-3 minutes left on the pasta timer, toss in the broccoli florets. This step ensures the broccoli stays crisp and bright. Don’t forget to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pot!

Combine Everything

Toss the Pasta and Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta, broccoli, cooked chicken, and toasted pine nuts if you’re using them. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of that reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Serving Suggestions

Once combined, serve the pasta warm, topping it with extra grated parmesan cheese. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad, making it a complete meal that satisfies and nourishes.

Tips for Success

Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor: Fresh garlic and quality chicken breast make a noticeable difference.
Be careful not to overcook the broccoli: It should keep its bright green color and a bit of crunch.
Taste and adjust seasonings: After mixing everything, it’s always a good idea to taste and tweak seasoning to your preference.

Variations

Mix things up a bit! You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu if you want a different protein. For those pursuing a healthier option, try using whole wheat pasta. Experiment with other vegetables too. Bell peppers or spinach can introduce new flavors and colors to this already vibrant dish.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so tasty), store them in an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to help bring back that creamy texture.

Pairing Ideas

For a refreshing kick to accompany your meal, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Complement the pasta with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a lovely touch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, absolutely! Just add the frozen broccoli to the pasta for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It holds well and can be reheated without losing its flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Sure! Substituting with dairy-free alternatives for heavy cream and parmesan cheese works great.

What pasta can I use instead of penne?
Farfalle or fusilli are excellent alternatives that work just as well.

How can I spice it up?
For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mix.

Chicken Broccoli Pasta brings comfort and joy to your dining table while being simple to prepare. Enjoy creating this delightful dish, and feel free to customize it to your tastes. Happy cooking!

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Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Pasta

What is a Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Pasta