Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Step-by-step instructions

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Add the broccoli in the last two minutes of cooking, then drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large pan. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using, then remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pan, add minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, letting it simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the drained pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the pan, tossing everything together until well coated in that luscious sauce.
Taste and adjust the seasoning. Serve hot, with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top.

Best ways to enjoy it

This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few simple touches. Serve generous portions in wide bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of freshness. It pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread or a light salad dressed with vinaigrette. For a touch of heat, add red pepper flakes to the final dish for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Storage and reheating tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3–4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back some moisture, as the pasta tends to absorb the sauce when stored. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the pasta for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding additional liquid to revive the creaminess.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few pro tips to make this pasta dish even better:

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
Sauté the broccoli briefly before adding to the pasta for added texture and flavor.
If you prefer a lighter sauce, mix half heavy cream with half yogurt for a creamy, tangy twist!

Creative twists

This versatile dish allows for plenty of creative variations:

Want some extra greens? Toss in some spinach or peas along with the broccoli.
Looking for a protein boost? Consider adding shrimp or chickpeas for something different.
You can also experiment with different cheeses; gouda or mozzarella can create a deliciously gooey experience.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

From start to finish, you can expect this dish to take about 30 minutes. It’s truly a weeknight favorite for its quick prep!

Can I use frozen broccoli or chicken?

Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw the chicken and broccoli before cooking. Frozen vegetables can be added directly, but you might need to cook them a bit longer.