Recipe

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

3 weeks ago
by Bader Daifi
Written by Bader Daifi

 

 

🍝 Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

A Comforting, Wholesome Dinner for Every Table

Introduction

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the kind of meal that brings comfort with every bite.
Tender pieces of chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta are wrapped in a
rich, silky cream sauce that feels indulgent yet balanced.
It’s a dish that slows the evening down, fills the kitchen with warmth, and gathers everyone
around the table.

Ideal for busy weeknights, relaxed family dinners, or simple meal prep, this recipe proves that
you don’t need complicated ingredients to create something truly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy and beginner-friendly
  • Ready in under 40 minutes
  • Creamy without feeling too heavy
  • Perfect for family dinners and leftovers
  • Highly customizable with simple swaps

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or fusilli)
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • A pinch of nutmeg
  • Red chili flakes
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to boiling water or steam them for 2–3 minutes
until bright green and slightly tender.
Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper,
and cook until golden and fully cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds
until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently.
Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 3–4 minutes.

Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Add the pasta and broccoli, tossing gently until everything is evenly coated.
Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley or basil,
and serve warm.

Cooking Methods

  • Stovetop: Classic and quick, best for creamy sauces
  • One-Pan Method: Cook pasta separately, then combine everything in one skillet
  • Baked Version: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly

History & Inspiration

Creamy pasta dishes have long been a staple of European and Italian-inspired home cooking.
Over time, families adapted these recipes using local ingredients like chicken and broccoli
to create balanced, satisfying meals.
This version reflects modern comfort cooking—simple, nourishing, and designed for everyday life.

Health & Nutritional Benefits

  • High in protein from chicken
  • Broccoli provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
  • Calcium and healthy fats from dairy
  • Balanced carbohydrates for energy
  • Can be lightened with simple substitutions

Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta

  • Do not overcook broccoli—it should stay bright and slightly crisp
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for smooth sauce
  • Keep heat low when adding cream to prevent curdling
  • Season gradually and taste as you go

Variations & Substitutions

  • Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of cream
  • Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms or spinach
  • Seafood: Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon
  • Extra Flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Reheating: Warm gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is comfort food done right—simple, nourishing,
and deeply satisfying.
With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables,
this dish fits perfectly into busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners.

Loved By

Families, home cooks, pasta lovers, and anyone who appreciates a warm,
homemade meal that feels both comforting and dependable.
Once tried, this recipe quickly becomes a regular favorite.

 

You may also like