This Chicken and Broccoli in Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the epitome of comfort food with a healthy twist! Juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and pasta are enveloped in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Ready in under 40 minutes, this one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to treat your family to something special.
Introduction
Hey Kitchies! Have you ever wanted to elevate a simple weeknight dinner into something that feels restaurant-worthy? This Chicken and Broccoli in Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the answer. It’s the perfect harmony of rich, creamy flavors with the freshness of crisp broccoli and the hearty satisfaction of tender chicken and pasta.
The secret to this dish lies in its balance. The creamy Parmesan sauce clings perfectly to each strand of pasta, while the chicken and broccoli add protein and greens, making it a well-rounded meal. Plus, everything comes together in one pan—minimal effort, maximum flavor!
Resume of the Recipe
This Chicken and Broccoli in Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a one-pan wonder that delivers comfort and elegance in every bite. Juicy, golden-brown chicken and vibrant, tender-crisp broccoli are tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a rich Parmesan sauce.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a dish you’ll return to time and again.
Exciting Story
Last week, I found myself staring at the classic “chicken and broccoli” combo in my fridge, feeling uninspired. But then, I remembered a creamy pasta dish I had on a date night ages ago, and inspiration struck! I decided to recreate that luxurious, cheesy experience at home—with my own twist, of course.
When I served this pasta to my family, the reaction was priceless. My husband couldn’t stop raving about the sauce, and even my picky little ones devoured their plates without a single complaint. Now, it’s become a regular request in our house, especially on chilly evenings when we all crave something cozy and delicious.
Why This Chicken and Broccoli in Creamy Parmesan Pasta?
- One-Pan Simplicity: Cook everything in one pan for easy cleanup.
- Balanced Meal: Combines protein, greens, and carbs in one dish.
- Restaurant-Worthy Sauce: The creamy Parmesan sauce is rich, velvety, and irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Family-Friendly: A dish everyone at the table will love.
Cuisine
Italian-American
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Broccoli in Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Cut Evenly: Cut chicken and broccoli into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep broccoli tender-crisp for a fresh, vibrant texture.
- Add More Cheese: For extra richness, sprinkle more Parmesan before serving.
- Thin the Sauce: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water or chicken broth.
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
- Pasta: Swap penne with linguine, rotini, or gluten-free pasta.
- Cheese: Add mozzarella or Gruyère for a gooey texture.
- Veggies: Include mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use whole-grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk.
- Reduce cheese or use a low-fat version to cut calories.
Closing
And there you have it—Chicken and Broccoli in Creamy Parmesan Pasta, a dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table with minimal effort. Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how much your family loved it. Bon appétit!
Categories
Dinner, One-Pot Meals, Pasta, Comfort Food
Tags
#ChickenRecipes #PastaNight #OnePotMeals #CreamyPasta #FamilyDinner
FAQs
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but the sauce is best when fresh. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to revive the texture. - What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta that holds sauce well. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, but the pasta is still edible. Reheat gently and stir well. - What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
A crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread makes an excellent pairing. - Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add extra broccoli or mushrooms.
Enjoy every creamy, savory bite! 🍴
Print
Chicken and Broccoli in Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
This Chicken and Broccoli in Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the epitome of comfort food with a healthy twist!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Sauté until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Prepare the Sauce: Lower the heat and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta. Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Add the chicken and broccoli back to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6
