Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Simple, healthy, and comforting—this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is perfect for busy nights and family dinners.

???? Recipe Description

If you’re looking for a nutritious and easy-to-make dinner, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate solution. This dish is packed with protein from the chicken, fiber and vitamins from the broccoli, and creamy comfort from the pasta and sauce. It’s a great way to get a balanced meal in one pot without too much fuss.

The combination of tender chicken, crispy broccoli, and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce will have your family asking for seconds. The creamy sauce adds a rich and indulgent touch without being too heavy. Plus, you can make it as light or rich as you like by adjusting the amount of cream or cheese.

This recipe is versatile too—you can swap the pasta for whole grain, gluten-free, or even a spiralized veggie option like zucchini or sweet potato noodles for a healthier twist.

????️ Ingredients (Measured in grams for accuracy)

For the Pasta:

Penne pasta (or your preferred pasta) – 200g
Chicken breast – 300g
Fresh broccoli florets – 200g
Olive oil – 15g
Garlic (minced) – 10g
Heavy cream – 150g
Chicken broth – 150g
Parmesan cheese (grated) – 50g
Salt – 5g (to taste)
Black pepper – 1g (to taste)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – 10g

????‍???? Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them in the pan for 6–8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.
Slice the chicken into thin strips or cubes once it has cooled slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
In the last 3-4 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the water. This will cook the broccoli while the pasta finishes cooking.
Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan you cooked the chicken in, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the pan with the creamy sauce. Stir everything together until evenly coated.
Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to warm everything through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

???? Nutrition Information (Per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugars: 5g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 450mg

???? Tips & Tricks

Make It Lighter: Use low-fat cream or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce calories and fat without sacrificing the creamy texture.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables, like spinach, peas, or even sun-dried tomatoes, to increase the flavor and nutrition.
Customizable Protein: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, turkey, or tofu if you prefer. You can also make this dish vegetarian by omitting the meat entirely.
Pasta Choices: Use any pasta you like! Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles make great alternatives.
Prep Ahead: You can cook and prep the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Just reheat everything when you’re ready to serve.

???? From the Chef – A Personal Touch

I love how versatile this dish is. Sometimes, I throw in a bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for some added freshness, especially during the warmer months. You can also switch up the cheese—adding a bit of goat cheese for creaminess or a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella can add a new dimension to the flavor.

If I want to make it a bit heartier, I’ll pair it with a side of crusty bread to scoop up the creamy sauce. It’s such a comforting meal, and the best part is how quick and easy it is to make on a busy weeknight.