Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe – Easy, Comforting & Family-Friendly

Introduction

When you’re looking for a quick, cozy dinner that satisfies the whole table, few meals deliver like creamy chicken broccoli pasta. This classic one-pan dish combines juicy chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and pasta tossed in a rich, silky cream sauce — simple ingredients that come together for big flavor.

It’s the ultimate busy weeknight dinner: easy to prep, ready in under 30 minutes, and made with pantry staples. Whether you’re feeding kids, cooking for two, or just want a reliable comfort food recipe, this dish checks all the boxes.

Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable — swap the pasta, lighten up the sauce, or add extra veggies based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients Overview

This dish relies on kitchen basics, but each component plays a key role in taste and texture. Here’s what you need and how to make it your own.

Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1 lb)
  Cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking and quicker prep. Thighs offer more flavor; breasts stay lean.

• Seasoning:
  Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a well-balanced, savory base.

Pasta:

• Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle (12 oz)
  Holds sauce well and cooks evenly. Gluten-free pasta works, too.

Broccoli:

• Fresh broccoli florets (about 3 cups)
  Cut into small florets so they cook quickly. You can use frozen broccoli — just thaw and pat dry.

Cream Sauce:

• Butter (2 tbsp)
  For sautéing and richness.

• Garlic (2–3 cloves, minced)
  Adds aromatic depth.

• Flour (2 tbsp)
  Helps thicken the sauce. Use gluten-free flour if needed.

• Milk (2 cups) and/or Half-and-half (½ cup)
  The base of the sauce — use a mix for creaminess without being too heavy.

• Parmesan cheese (½–¾ cup grated)
  Brings sharp, salty richness that makes the sauce shine.

• Optional: Cream cheese (2 tbsp) for extra creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Cook pasta according to package directions. In the last 2–3 minutes, add broccoli florets.

• Drain both together and set aside.

2. Sauté the Chicken

• While pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.

• Transfer to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

• In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

• Stir in 2 tbsp flour and cook for 1 minute to form a light roux.

• Slowly whisk in the milk and half-and-half, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

• Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Add Cheese and Combine

• Stir in grated Parmesan and optional cream cheese.

• Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg or chili flakes if desired.

• Add cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli back into the pan.

• Toss gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

5. Serve Hot

• Let everything warm through for 1–2 minutes.

• Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper or chopped parsley.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips:

• Cut broccoli small so it softens quickly without getting mushy.

• For a lighter version, use just milk and skip the cream cheese.

• Save pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.

Variations:

• Bacon lovers: Add crisped bacon bits at the end for salty crunch.

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne to the sauce.

• More veggies: Add peas, spinach, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.

Substitutions:

• Dairy-free? Use unsweetened almond or oat milk, and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

• Gluten-free? Use GF pasta and swap flour with a GF thickener like cornstarch or rice flour.

• Low-carb? Use cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This creamy chicken broccoli pasta is versatile enough for casual dinners or a hearty lunch.

Pair With:

• Garlic bread or crusty rolls

• A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans

Perfect For:

• Busy weeknights

• Family meals everyone will eat

• Make-ahead lunches (it reheats beautifully!)

• Cozy weekend dinners with minimal cleanup

Nutritional & Health Notes

With lean protein, vegetables, and customizable sauce ingredients, this dish offers balanced comfort.

Estimated per serving (based on 4 portions):

• Calories: ~480–550

• Protein: ~35g

• Carbs: ~35g

• Fat: ~22g

• Fiber: ~4g

Healthy Highlights:

• Packed with protein and fiber

• Can be made lighter with low-fat milk or whole wheat pasta

• A great way to get more vegetables into picky eaters

• Naturally filling and customizable to dietary needs

FAQs

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?

A: Yes! Just shred or cube it and add it after the sauce is made — no need to sauté first.

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Q2: Can I use frozen broccoli?

A: Definitely. Thaw it first, pat dry, and stir it in when combining everything so it doesn’t get mushy.

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Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk.

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Q4: Can I freeze this pasta?

A: It freezes okay but may lose some creaminess. Let cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and thaw overnight before reheating with extra milk.

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Q5: What’s the best cheese for the sauce?

A: Parmesan is classic for flavor and texture. Mozzarella or a bit of sharp white cheddar can add melty richness.

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Q6: Can I make this dish ahead?

A: Yes. Make it earlier in the day and reheat before serving. Add a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce.

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Q7: How can I make this dish vegetarian?

A: Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or white beans for protein and texture.

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