If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with a home-cooked classic, this recipe combines simple ingredients with delicious results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but pack a punch in flavor and texture, making the dish both satisfying and visually appealing. Each component plays a crucial role, from the protein to the sauce, creating the perfect harmony on your plate.
- 2 cups pasta: Go for your favorite shape; penne or fusilli work great to hold the creamy sauce.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Lean and tender, it’s the star protein that offers a hearty bite.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy texture plus vibrant color and nutrients.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a lovely aromatic punch that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides the nutty, salty flavor essential for the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The silky base that ties the sauce together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic to golden perfection.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances all the natural flavors.
How to Make Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Preheating the oven gives you the option to finish the chicken there if you like, ensuring it stays juicy inside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain it and set it aside to keep. This step is all about preparing a base that won’t turn mushy once tossed with the rich sauce later on.
Step 3: Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until deeply golden and fully cooked through. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices locked in.
Step 4: Build the Sauce and Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, keep those lovely chicken flavors by adding the minced garlic. Cook it until fragrant – about one minute – and then toss in the broccoli florets. Let them soften slightly for 3 to 4 minutes, keeping a little crunch to contrast the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a silky, cheesy sauce that clings beautifully to every ingredient. This sauce is the heart of the Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe, elevating it from simple to sensational.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add your cooked pasta back into the skillet, tossing it carefully to coat every bite with the luscious sauce. Then, slice your rested chicken breasts and layer them on top. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste and stir everything together so flavors meld perfectly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe immediately, ideally while it’s hot and the sauce is gloriously creamy. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top is always a welcome touch if you’re feeling extra cheesy!
How to Serve Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh garnish can make this dish even more delightful; think freshly chopped parsley or a bit of cracked black pepper for visual appeal and an added burst of flavor. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil just before serving amplifies that comforting mouthfeel and aroma.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables or a tangy tomato salad can also provide a refreshing complement that balances the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the pasta in rustic bowls for a cozy, homemade vibe, or get fancy by plating with edible flowers or microgreens for a pop of color and elegance. Layering the sliced chicken on top of a nest of pasta rather than mixing it in can make for an impressive presentation too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Store in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor without drying out the creamy sauce or chicken.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then portion and freeze in airtight containers. While the texture of broccoli can slightly soften after freezing, the dish remains delicious and convenient for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Slow reheating preserves the creamy texture and prevents the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fusilli, penne, or even farfalle work beautifully because their shapes hold onto the sauce well. Feel free to use gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
Is it okay to substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs bring a bit more richness and juiciness to the dish. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as thighs may cook a bit faster or slower depending on thickness.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or low-fat?
For dairy-free, try using coconut cream or a nut-based cream substitute and vegan Parmesan alternatives. For a lighter option, swap heavy cream for low-fat milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken.
What can I use if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheeses are excellent stand-ins that provide a similar salty, tangy kick to the sauce.
How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes alongside the broccoli. Just sauté them before adding the cream to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making a meal from scratch that warms both heart and belly. This Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients come together to create something absolutely delicious and memorable. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
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Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A creamy and comforting Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish featuring tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce tossed with al dente pasta. This quick and easy one-pan meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 2 cups pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for potential finishing or resting, although the main cooking is stovetop.
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to cook the pasta.
- Cook Pasta: Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant to build flavor.
- Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly tender but still crisp.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss to coat fully with the creamy sauce.
- Add Chicken: Slice the rested chicken breasts and add to the skillet with pasta and sauce.
- Season and Combine: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste and stir everything together evenly.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and broccoli pasta hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the broccoli to maintain a nice crunch and vibrant color.
- Resting the chicken after cooking helps keep it juicy and tender when sliced.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may be less rich.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat to the dish if desired.
