Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta: Easy One-Pot Recipe

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with this mouthwatering Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta recipe. Picture this: tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente pasta enveloped in a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting meal that will have your family coming back for seconds.

The magic happens when the broccoli is added to the simmering sauce, allowing it to soak up all the creamy goodness without losing its delightful crunch. This step not only infuses the broccoli with flavor but also adds a lovely texture to the dish, reminiscent of cherished home-cooked meals. Whether it’s a hectic weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that never fails to impress.

Elevate your dining experience by serving this delectable pasta alongside a crisp salad or some warm garlic bread. The simplicity of this recipe, inspired by classic Italian flavors, will make you fall in love with its rich and comforting taste. So, why wait? Treat yourself and your loved ones to this soul-satisfying Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta – a delightful dish that promises to become a cherished favorite in your home.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy dinner option under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights
• Creamy Parmesan sauce clings perfectly to every strand of pasta, creating a luscious texture
• Versatile recipe with options for ingredient substitutions to suit preferences or dietary needs
• Leftovers can be stored and reheated easily while maintaining the creamy and smooth texture

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta: Easy One-Pot Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick and delicious dinner.
• Family Favorite: The creamy sauce and tender chicken paired with broccoli make this dish a comforting and satisfying meal that will become a staple in your family’s meal rotation.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out ingredients like chicken thighs for chicken breast or broccoli for green beans or zucchini, making it adaptable to your preferences and seasonal produce.
• Leftover Friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days and reheat gently for a creamy and smooth sauce that tastes just as good as when freshly made.
• Balanced Meal: This dish combines protein from the chicken, vegetables from the broccoli, and carbs from the pasta, making it a well-rounded meal that can stand alone or be paired with a salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience.
• Comforting and Nostalgic: The simple ingredients like Parmesan, garlic, and cream bring nostalgic flavors reminiscent of classic Italian dishes, adding a comforting touch to your meal.
• Satisfying and Delicious: The creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta, ensuring each bite is full of flavor and texture, making it a dish you’ll crave time and time again.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta: Easy One-Pot Recipe

Pasta components

• Reserved 240 ml pasta cooking water
• Salt, for pasta water
• 500 g dried pasta

Protein and vegetables

• 2–3 cups (approx. 250–350 g) broccoli florets, sliced small
• 500 g boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Sauce and aromatics

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Olive oil, for sautéing
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 3/4 cup (60 g) Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Pro Tips for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta: Easy One-Pot Recipe

To ensure the cream sauce stays smooth and luscious, keep the heat at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling it after adding the cream. Stirring continuously will help achieve a velvety finish. For those using chicken breast instead of thighs, be mindful of the cooking time to prevent it from drying out; cutting the pieces evenly will help ensure even cooking. Opt for short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni as they hold the creamy sauce well, making every bite flavorful.

For a vegetarian twist, omit the chicken and incorporate extra broccoli or mushrooms for a hearty alternative. While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat leftovers gently with a splash of extra cream or pasta water to revive the creamy texture. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, or zucchini for seasonal variations, or add toasted walnuts for a delightful crunch.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta: Easy One-Pot Recipe

Step 1: Cook pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 240 ml of cooking water, then drain pasta.

Step 2: Prepare chicken

Drizzle chicken pieces with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then brown in a large skillet over medium-high heat until opaque and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté aromatics

In the same pan, melt butter. Add minced garlic and dried thyme; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make cream sauce

Combine heavy cream and lemon juice in a pan and simmer gently.

Step 5: Simmer chicken and broccoli

Add the chicken back to the pan along with the broccoli florets. Simmer partially covered for 5–7 minutes until both chicken and broccoli are cooked through.

Step 6: Finish sauce

Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 7: Combine pasta and serve

Combine drained pasta with sauce, tossing to coat. Gradually add reserved pasta water until sauce evenly coats pasta. Serve promptly.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the creamy broccoli chicken pasta, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish can be kept for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce. Gently warm the pasta either in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce remains smooth. For freezing, it’s recommended to portion the pasta before adding the broccoli to prevent it from becoming soggy upon thawing.

To adapt the recipe, you can substitute chicken breast for the chicken thighs, but be cautious of the cooking time to prevent the meat from drying out. You can also swap the broccoli for other vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or zucchini to add variety to the dish throughout different seasons. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and increase the amount of broccoli while adding toasted walnuts for a delightful crunch. Enhance the meal by serving it with a side salad or garlic bread, and feel free to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese at the table for added flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer to use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs, ensure to adjust the cooking time to prevent it from drying out. Cut the chicken breast into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking throughout the dish.

Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other vegetables based on personal preference or seasonal availability. Green beans, sliced asparagus, or zucchini can make delicious alternatives to broccoli. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the vegetables are cooked to your desired level of tenderness.

For a vegetarian version of this creamy pasta dish, simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of broccoli. You can also add in mushrooms for a meaty texture and extra depth of flavor. Consider incorporating toasted walnuts for a crunchy element that complements the creamy sauce well.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of this creamy broccoli chicken pasta, consider serving it in individual baked pasta shells for a fun twist. Simply fill large pasta shells with the creamy pasta mixture, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top, and bake until bubbly and golden for a delightful and visually appealing meal.

For a more elegant presentation, serve the creamy broccoli chicken pasta in small, hollowed-out bread bowls. This creative serving suggestion not only adds a rustic charm to the dish but also allows guests to enjoy the creamy pasta and sauce together with the soft, warm bread, creating a harmonious and satisfying dining experience.

FAQs for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta: Easy One-Pot Recipe

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well as a substitute in this recipe. Just be cautious of the cooking time to prevent it from drying out. Ensure the pieces are cut evenly for the best results.

What type of pasta shapes work best with this creamy sauce?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best for this recipe. These shapes hold the creamy sauce well, ensuring that each bite is flavorful and satisfying.

How can I make a vegetarian version of this broccoli chicken pasta?

To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and add extra broccoli or mushrooms for a hearty alternative. Consider adding toasted walnuts for crunch or doubling the broccoli for a nutritious twist.

Can I reheat leftovers of this dish?

Yes, you can reheat leftovers of this creamy broccoli chicken pasta. Add a splash of extra cream or pasta water when reheating to help maintain the creamy texture. Gently warm it in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Conclusion

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta is a dish that truly warms the heart and the belly. Whether you are looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal or planning a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a winner. The creamy Parmesan sauce coats every bite of chicken, broccoli, and pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe and make it your own. You can easily customize it by swapping out ingredients or adding your favorite seasonal vegetables. The beauty of Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta lies in its versatility and simplicity. So go ahead, gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy a memorable meal together with a big serving of this delicious pasta.