Name: Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Delight Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or preferred shape); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Delight Pasta is the kind of comforting, one-pan meal I crave on busy weeknights or when I need something warm and satisfying. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce come together with perfectly cooked pasta for a simple yet delicious dinner the whole family loves. It’s hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor—without being too heavy.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how easily this pasta dish comes together using everyday ingredients. The chicken adds protein, the broccoli brings in freshness and a bit of crunch, and the sauce coats everything in creamy, garlicky goodness. I can make it all in about 30 minutes, and it tastes like something I’d order from a cozy café. It’s a complete meal in one bowl, and the leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups broccoli florets
8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. About 2 minutes before it’s done, I toss in the broccoli florets so they cook until just tender. Then I drain everything and set it aside.
While the pasta cooks, I season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. I melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. I remove the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips.
In the same skillet, I add the garlic and sauté it for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. I stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
I return the sliced chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet and toss everything together to coat in the sauce.
I adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost.
For a lighter version, I substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream.
I’ve also swapped the chicken for shrimp or left it out entirely for a vegetarian version.
Whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta work well too if I’m adjusting for dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the pasta gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too, but I stir halfway through to keep everything evenly heated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I’ve used frozen broccoli when I’m out of fresh. I add it straight to the boiling pasta water during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I prefer it fresh, but I sometimes cook the chicken and broccoli ahead and reheat with freshly cooked pasta and sauce for quicker assembly.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

I like using penne or fettuccine, but rotini, rigatoni, or spaghetti all work well for holding onto the sauce.

Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Yes, I’ve tried this with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, or even Asiago for a bolder flavor.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

I keep the heat on low once I add the cream and avoid boiling it. I also add the cheese gradually while stirring to keep it smooth.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Delight Pasta is a dish I keep coming back to. It’s fast, flavorful, and satisfying—everything I want in a weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli are such a classic combo, and it all comes together with minimal fuss. Whether I’m feeding my family or treating myself to a cozy meal, this pasta never disappoints.