This chicken and broccoli pasta dish brings together the best of both worlds: a rich, creamy sauce that feels indulgent and vibrant green broccoli florets that add a fresh crunch to every bite. When tender pieces of pan-seared chicken meet al dente penne, each forkful becomes a celebration of textures and flavors. The subtle zing of lemon juice and zest cuts through the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan, delivering a bright contrast that awakens your taste buds and keeps you coming back for more. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table yet still manages to taste light and refreshing. Whether you’re craving comfort food or simply looking to add more greens to your routine, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Beyond the taste adventure, this chicken and broccoli pasta is wonderfully straightforward, making it a perfect fit for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners. With just about 15 minutes of preparation and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour—plenty of time left to set the mood with some good music or pour yourself a glass of crisp white wine. The ease of this recipe means you can customize it to suit your family’s preferences: swap half-and-half for a lighter sauce, toss in extra spinach or asparagus for a green boost, or dial up the heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. As a beginner-friendly dish, it’s a great confidence booster for anyone looking to elevate their home-cooking game without getting overwhelmed by complicated techniques.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PASTA
Before diving into the full recipe, let’s take a quick look at the star players that make this dish so irresistible. Each ingredient has a special role, contributing depth, texture, and flavor to create that crowd-pleasing harmony on your plate.
- Penne pasta
This ridged, tubular pasta holds onto creamy sauces and tender morsels of chicken, ensuring every bite is coated in flavor.
- Olive oil
A quality extra-virgin olive oil provides a silky base for sautéing chicken and vegetables, infusing them with a fruity richness.
- Chicken breasts
Boneless and skinless, these lean protein pieces are cut into bite-sized chunks for quick cooking and an even distribution of savory meat throughout the dish.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and broccoli, enhancing every component without overpowering them.
- Broccoli florets
Vibrant and slightly crisp, they add color, nutrients, and a satisfying snap that balances the creamy sauce.
- Garlic
Minced cloves release a fragrant warmth, building a flavorful foundation and enhancing the overall taste with a subtle hint of spice.
- Chicken broth
A savory liquid that deepens the sauce’s flavor, helping to tenderize the broccoli and create a cohesive base.
- Heavy cream
The secret to that luscious, velvety sauce, adding richness and body that clings beautifully to pasta and veggies.
- Parmesan cheese
Finely grated for easy melting, this nutty, salty cheese thickens the sauce and adds a savory punch.
- Lemon zest
Brightens the dish with citrus oils, offering a fragrant aroma and a tangy lift that cuts through the creaminess.
- Lemon juice
The perfect acidity enhancer, balancing flavors and giving each bite a fresh, lively finish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
A dash of heat for those who enjoy a gentle kick, bringing a subtle warmth that pairs wonderfully with the creamy elements.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped and sprinkled on top for a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness that ties all the flavors together.
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PASTA
This section guides you through each step of creating your ultimate chicken and broccoli pasta. From cooking the pasta to simmering the sauce, you’ll learn how to build layers of flavor and achieve that irresistible creamy consistency.
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain thoroughly and set aside, ensuring the pasta stays al dente and ready to absorb the sauce.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, season generously with salt and pepper, then cook until each piece is golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn a bright green and are just tender, maintaining a slight crunch.
4. Add the minced garlic to the broccoli and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn—you want a gentle aroma, not bitterness.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, allowing the broccoli to cook further and soak up those savory juices for 2–3 minutes.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, raising the heat slightly until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat to low and blend in the Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened to a luscious consistency.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix gently to coat each piece of chicken and broccoli with the creamy sauce, ensuring a balanced flavor in every bite.
8. Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta, combining it thoroughly with the broccoli and chicken mixture. Make sure each pasta tube is generously coated and infused with sauce.
9. Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot for a delicious, family-friendly meal.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PASTA
When it comes to serving this creamy chicken and broccoli pasta, presentation and complementary flavors can elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply treating yourself, these ideas will help you showcase the dish at its best.
- Pair with crusty garlic bread for sopping up every last drop of sauce. A golden-brown loaf, brushed with butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs, makes an irresistible sidekick.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. The crisp textures and tangy dressing offer a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pasta.
- Garnish with a generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few more red pepper flakes for visual appeal and an added flavor boost right at the table.
- Complement the meal with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Pinot Grigio. The bright acidity and fruity notes pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and citrus accents.
HOW TO STORE CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PASTA
Proper storage ensures that your leftover chicken and broccoli pasta retains its delicious flavors and creamy texture. Follow these tips to enjoy tasty reheated portions throughout the week.
- Refrigerate in airtight containers
Transfer cooled pasta into sealed containers within two hours of cooking. Store in the fridge for up to three days, preserving both flavor and texture.
- Separate sauce and pasta (optional)
If you want to maintain maximum freshness, keep the sauce and pasta in separate containers. Reheat them individually, then combine just before serving.
- Gentle reheating methods
Warm portions in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
- Freezing for longer storage
For meals beyond three days, freeze in portion-sized containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid if the sauce has thickened too much.
CONCLUSION
This chicken and broccoli pasta recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable. From the tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli to the silky sauce brightened by lemon and Parmesan, every component works in harmony. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish offers comfort, nutrition, and a burst of flavor in every bite. You can easily customize it to suit dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your weeknight dinner lineup. With only about 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, it’s beginner-friendly yet impressive enough to please seasoned cooks looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later—the step-by-step guide, ingredient breakdown, serving tips, and storage advice are all here for your convenience. Below you’ll find a FAQ section to answer common questions and help troubleshoot any kitchen hiccups, from achieving the perfect pasta texture to adjusting flavors on the fly. If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your comments, questions, or feedback. Whether you need tips for customizing the sauce, suggestions on side dishes, or just want to share a success story, I’m here to help and cheer you on in your cooking adventures. Happy cooking!
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Description
Savory chicken pairs perfectly with crisp-tender broccoli and al dente penne in a rich, creamy sauce, making every bite satisfying and comforting for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender.
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Add minced garlic to the broccoli and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the broccoli to cook further and absorb the flavor.
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Stir in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
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Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes, if using. Mix well until everything is coated with the creamy sauce.
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Gently fold in cooked penne pasta, combining it thoroughly with the broccoli and chicken mixture.
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Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Note
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- For an extra dose of green, add spinach or asparagus.
- Try sprinkling additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc.
