Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

(Comforting, Easy, and Perfect for Busy Weeknights)

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the kind of meal that brings comfort to the table with minimal effort. Tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a rich, silky cream sauce that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. It’s a balanced, satisfying dish that combines protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in one cozy bowl.

This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual entertaining. It comes together quickly using simple ingredients, yet delivers restaurant-quality flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and comforting without being complicated
Made with everyday pantry ingredients
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Ready in about 30 minutes
Easy to customize

Ingredients

Serves 4–6.

12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Equipment Needed

Large pot
Large skillet or sauté pan
Colander
Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Broccoli

Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir gently and bring to a light simmer. Add Italian seasoning and a pinch of black pepper.

5. Combine

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the pasta. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

6. Add Cheese

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy pasta:

With garlic bread or breadsticks
Alongside a simple green salad
With extra Parmesan on top
Garnished with fresh parsley

Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta

Don’t overcook the broccoli—it should stay bright and crisp
Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother sauce
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
Season gradually and taste as you go
Serve immediately for best texture

Variations

Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
Cheesy Upgrade: Add mozzarella or cream cheese
Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms with the garlic
Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or Cajun seasoning
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a reliable, comforting dish that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing flavor. It’s rich, hearty, and endlessly adaptable—making it a staple recipe you’ll return to again and again.