If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is just what you need. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this dish delivers on taste and simplicity every time. You’ll love how the garlic-infused cream sauce clings to every bite, making it a true family favorite that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and a pop of color. From the star of the dish, the chicken breast, to the fresh crunch of broccoli, everything comes together seamlessly.
- 2 cups pasta: Choose your favorite type like penne or rotini for perfect sauce hold and bite.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Lean and tender protein that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a vibrant green color and a healthy crunch to balance the richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant depth that elevates the entire dish.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta and chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing garlic, adding a subtle fruity note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
How to Make Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) – while we won’t use it extensively here, it helps wake up your kitchen for the cooking process ahead. Then, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil; this will cook your pasta perfectly al dente, the foundation for a great homemade chicken and broccoli pasta recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Once your water is boiling, add 2 cups of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente – firm to the bite but tender enough to absorb that creamy sauce. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside to keep warm while you prep the other ingredients.
Step 3: Season and Sear the Chicken
Next, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts and cook each side for 6 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely golden brown. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing—this keeps it juicy, making the final dish all the more satisfying.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic and Broccoli
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (no need to wash it out, the fond adds flavor), toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes; you want them slightly tender but still holding their bright color and snap.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the 1/2 cup heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Once warmed through, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts perfectly into the sauce, creating a silky, rich coating for your pasta and vegetables.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet, tossing it lovingly to ensure it’s all covered in that heavenly Parmesan cream sauce. Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-size pieces and fold it into the skillet as well. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste, giving one final stir to marry all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 7: Serve with Love
Your Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is now ready to be served. Dish it out while it’s hot, and get ready for a satisfying meal that’s as delightful to eat as it is simple to make.
How to Serve Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh garnish can take your dish to the next level. Sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added salty richness. You could also add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil to brighten the flavors and offer a lovely contrast to the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
Keep your sides light to balance the richness of the pasta. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, roasted cherry tomatoes, or even some garlic bread for dipping into that luscious sauce make wonderful companions. These will complement the main dish without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in individual bowls with a lemon wedge on the side— a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating adds a lovely brightness. If hosting guests, plating with finely chopped herbs and a drizzle of olive oil elevates the presentation effortlessly. For a fun twist, you can toss in sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for subtle heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover homemade chicken and broccoli pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it promptly to maintain freshness, and be sure to keep the sauce well combined with the pasta to prevent drying out.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen but keep in mind that heavy cream sauces sometimes separate when thawed. To preserve the best texture, freeze the pasta without the sauce and chicken if possible, then add freshly cooked components when reheating. Alternatively, freeze the complete dish in portions for up to 1 month, but thaw gently and reheat slowly.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid the sauce breaking, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy consistency. You can also microwave it covered in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Always reheat until steaming hot for the best taste and food safety.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Cauliflower, spinach, or even asparagus make great substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time so your veggies stay tender yet crisp.
Is it possible to make this recipe with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta varieties to suit your dietary needs without losing any deliciousness. Just follow the package’s cooking instructions closely to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving to cook, but may require slightly longer cooking times. Just ensure they’re cooked through and tender before adding them to the pasta.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten it up, you can substitute half the heavy cream with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt, and reduce the cheese slightly. Using olive oil sparingly also helps keep calories in check without sacrificing flavor.
What kind of Parmesan cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers the best flavor and texture, melting smoothly into the sauce. Pre-grated varieties can work in a pinch but might not blend as well or taste as rich.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration every time you make it. It’s simple enough for busy days but special enough to impress family and friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s a wonderful way to bring creamy, savory comfort food to your table without any fuss. Once you taste it, I promise you’ll keep coming back to this recipe for all your pasta nights.
Print
Homemade Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A creamy and comforting homemade chicken and broccoli pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Produce
- 2 cups pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast
Dairy and Oils
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for any finishing touches or keeping the dish warm if desired, though the main cooking occurs on the stovetop.
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This will be used to cook the pasta.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance flavor.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to 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, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly tender but still crisp.
- Make Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat it evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Add Chicken: Slice the rested chicken breasts and add the slices to the skillet, mixing everything together.
- Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve the chicken and broccoli pasta hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated will enhance the flavor and texture of the sauce.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
- Resting the cooked chicken before slicing helps keep it juicy and tender.
- You can steam the broccoli if preferred, but sautéing it in garlic adds extra flavor.
