If you have been searching for a comforting yet fresh pasta dish that dazzles both your taste buds and dinner guests alike, look no further than this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe. It combines tender chunks of seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and al dente pasta—all enveloped in a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce. It’s an approachable dinner that effortlessly balances indulgence with wholesome ingredients, making weeknight meals feel just a little more special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the fresh broccoli adding color and crunch, or the Parmesan cheese lending sharp, nutty depth to the luscious sauce.
- Pasta (1 lb): Choose penne or rotini to help trap the creamy sauce in every bite.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2): Diced for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a perfect base for sautéing and adds subtle fruitiness.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Builds a savory foundation when softened in the skillet.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with mouthwatering aroma and depth.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Fresh or frozen, they lend vibrant green color and a healthy crunch.
- Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): Creates the silky, indulgent sauce that coats every ingredient.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds subtle savory notes and helps thin the sauce just right.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): The star of the creamy sauce, melted to perfection.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A delicate mix of herbs that brightens the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of green and a hint of brightness as garnish.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta of choice and follow the package instructions for al dente cook time. A couple of minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets so they can gently steam and soften alongside. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, setting them aside for the next step. This method ensures your broccoli stays tender but still crisp and bright.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and season them well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until each piece is beautifully browned on the outside and no longer pink inside. This sizzling stage locks in juiciness and builds flavor foundations for your sauce.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, add diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Toss in minced garlic and cook just long enough for its rich aroma to awaken the senses—about 30 seconds.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly over 3 to 4 minutes. This is where the magic begins, as the sauce transforms into a luscious coat for every ingredient.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add your cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the drained pasta and broccoli. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese slowly until it melts and the sauce turns creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. The result should be a harmonious blend where each forkful delivers a creamy, savory, and slightly herbaceous experience.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe is best enjoyed fresh from the stove, while the sauce is silky and warm. Garnish as you like, and prepare yourself for a comforting, crowd-pleasing feast.
How to Serve Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to brighten the dish visually and add a fresh herbal note that balances the creamy richness. Extra grated Parmesan cheese on top is always welcome for cheese lovers who want to elevate each bite.
Side Dishes
This pasta dish is hearty on its own, but a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing counterpart. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect to soak up any remaining creamy sauce on the plate, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the pasta in shallow bowls or large, rustic plates for a cozy, homey feel. You can also transfer the pasta into individual ramekins, topping each with a small sprig of parsley and a Parmesan crisp for an elegant touch that impresses every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more after resting, making for an easy and delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with short intervals to avoid curdling the cream. Adding a splash of milk or broth helps restore the sauce’s creamy consistency when warming leftovers.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Parmesan is ideal thanks to its sharp, nutty flavor that melts smoothly into the sauce, but Pecorino Romano or Asiago can also work nicely as substitutes for a slightly different twist.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in this recipe?
Heavy cream provides the rich, silky texture that defines the sauce. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less thick and creamy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The sauce and other components remain the same, making this dish accessible for gluten-sensitive diners.
How do I keep the broccoli from getting mushy?
Adding the broccoli during the last few minutes of pasta cooking helps preserve its bright color and slight crunch, keeping it perfectly tender without turning mushy.
What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Penne and rotini are great because their shape grips the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use fusilli, farfalle, or any shape you love—this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe adapts beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser, effortlessly combining simple ingredients to create something truly memorable. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just craving a cozy night in, this dish is bound to become a fast favorite. Give it a try—the creamy sauce and tender chicken will quickly win your heart and palate.
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Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A creamy and comforting Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish combining tender sautéed chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente pasta in a rich Parmesan-infused cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight meal that balances protein, vegetables, and indulgent flavors.
Ingredients
Protein & Pasta
- 1 lb (16 oz) pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Liquids & Dairy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Garnish
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. About 2-3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to cook together. Drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and coats everything evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Frozen broccoli florets can be used but make sure to thaw slightly or adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Season the pasta water generously with salt to enhance pasta flavor.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
