How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Chicken and broccoli pasta combines lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and satisfying carbohydrates in one harmonious dish that delivers both nutrition and comfort. This versatile meal strikes the perfect balance between hearty and wholesome, with tender chicken pieces and bright green broccoli florets intermingling among al dente pasta, all brought together by a savory sauce that clings to every bite. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder answers the eternal question of what to make for dinner when time is short but you refuse to compromise on flavor or nutritional value.

I first created this recipe during a particularly busy season when I needed quick, nutritious meals that wouldn't leave my kitchen looking like a disaster zone. What started as a simple way to use up leftover chicken and broccoli has become our family's most requested weeknight dinner. My husband, who typically gravitates toward heavier, meat-focused meals, consistently requests this pasta, saying the balance of flavors satisfies him completely. Even my vegetable-averse nephew cleans his plate when this is served, picking out the broccoli at first but eventually trying (and enjoying) it after seeing everyone else's enthusiasm.

Essential Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Provides lean protein that remains tender when cooked properly; boneless, skinless thighs can substitute for more richness
• Broccoli florets: Deliver vibrant color, essential nutrients, and pleasant texture; cut into uniform pieces for even cooking
• Pasta shapes: Medium varieties like penne, rotini, or farfalle capture sauce effectively; choose shapes with ridges or hollows for maximum sauce adherence
• Olive oil: Creates the foundation for sautéing with its fruity notes; extra virgin varieties add more distinctive flavor
• Fresh garlic: Builds aromatic depth that permeates the entire dish; mince finely for even distribution
• Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base that becomes your sauce; low-sodium options provide better seasoning control
• Heavy cream: Adds luxurious richness that transforms the sauce; even a small amount makes a significant difference
• Parmesan cheese: Contributes savory depth and natural thickening properties; freshly grated melts more smoothly than pre-packaged
• Italian seasoning: Provides herbal complexity without requiring multiple spice jars; look for blends with basil, oregano, and thyme
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors into focus; kosher salt and freshly ground pepper provide the cleanest taste
• Red pepper flakes: Optional but recommended for adding gentle heat that balances the creamy elements

Simple Preparation

Water preparation:

Begin by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous tablespoon of salt until it tastes like seawater. This essential step seasons the pasta and broccoli from within. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat while you prepare other ingredients.

Chicken seasoning:

While waiting for the water to boil, cut one pound of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Season generously with half a teaspoon each of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning, tossing to coat each piece evenly.

Pasta cooking:

Once water reaches a full boil, add 8 ounces of pasta and stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions minus 2 minutes, as the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce. Set a timer to remind yourself when to add the broccoli.

Broccoli addition:

When 3 minutes remain on your pasta cooking time, add 3 cups of broccoli florets directly to the boiling pasta water. This efficient technique cooks the broccoli perfectly while saving an extra pot. The broccoli should turn bright green and remain slightly crisp.

Protein preparation:

While pasta and broccoli cook, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer without crowding. Allow them to develop a golden crust before stirring, about 2-3 minutes per side. The chicken should be just cooked through but still juicy.

Aromatic foundation:

Reduce heat to medium and add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the chicken. Stir continuously for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This brief cooking releases the garlic's essential oils while preventing bitterness from overcooking.

Sauce development:

Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These concentrated flavor particles enrich the entire sauce. Allow the liquid to simmer and reduce by approximately one-third, about 3-4 minutes.

Creamy enhancement:

Pour in ¼ cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously as it incorporates with the reduced broth. The sauce will begin to take on a silky texture and slight thickness. If omitting cream, a tablespoon of butter achieves similar richness.

Pasta incorporation:

Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving ½ cup of the starchy cooking water. Add drained pasta and broccoli directly to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece with sauce while being careful not to break the broccoli florets.

Final adjustment:

Add ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, tossing until it melts completely into the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.

Serving Suggestion

Transfer to a large serving bowl or individual plates while still hot. If desired, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant color contrast and fresh flavor accent.

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I learned the importance of properly seasoned pasta water from my Italian grandmother, who would taste the water before adding pasta and declare it should "taste like the sea." When I first started cooking this dish, I would skimp on salt, and the final result always seemed to need something. Once I started properly salting the cooking water, the entire dish transformed. My daughter, who once picked broccoli out of everything, now specifically requests "the green trees" in her pasta after I started cutting the broccoli into more appealing shapes and cooking it to that perfect crisp-tender stage rather than letting it become mushy.

Perfect Pairings

Simple accompaniments complement this versatile pasta beautifully. A warm crusty baguette or garlic bread provides the ideal vehicle for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful sauce. The contrast between the crisp crust and soft interior creates a delightful textural experience alongside the pasta. For a complete meal with minimal additional effort, serve with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon juice, olive oil, and cracked black pepper. The bright acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the pasta dish while adding freshness to the overall meal. On chilly evenings, a glass of unoaked Chardonnay or light Pinot Grigio makes a lovely accompaniment, its subtle fruit notes enhancing the savory elements of the dish without overwhelming them.

Flavor Variations

Creative adaptations keep this versatile dish exciting in your meal rotation. Mediterranean inspiration transforms this pasta with the addition of halved cherry tomatoes, pitted kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese in place of the Parmesan. The bright acidity from the tomatoes and briny olives creates an entirely new flavor profile. For an Asian-inspired twist, substitute the Italian seasoning with ginger and garlic, add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil to the sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. The complex umami flavors create a fusion dish that's both familiar and novel. Seafood enthusiasts might appreciate replacing chicken with sautéed shrimp and adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the finished dish, brightening the flavors while maintaining the dish's essential character.

Storage Wisdom

Proper techniques ensure this pasta remains delicious for multiple meals. Store completely cooled leftovers in shallow airtight containers to promote quick chilling and prevent bacterial growth. The pasta will continue absorbing sauce as it sits, naturally thickening the consistency. When reheating, add a tablespoon of water or broth per serving to restore moisture, then warm gently over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make the pasta slightly tough; cover with a damp paper towel and use 70% power in short intervals for best results. This dish maintains its quality for up to three days in the refrigerator, making it ideal for meal prep and planned leftovers. For best results when preparing components ahead of time, store cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken separately, then combine with freshly made sauce when ready to serve.

I've experimented with countless pasta dishes over the years, but this chicken and broccoli combination remains in regular rotation for good reason. It exemplifies what I believe good home cooking should be – nourishing, adaptable, and achievable even on busy nights. What I appreciate most is how this recipe has evolved alongside our family's tastes and needs. When my husband was watching his carbohydrate intake, I simply increased the chicken and broccoli proportions. When my daughter went through a phase of refusing green vegetables, I roasted the broccoli separately to bring out its sweetness, and suddenly it became acceptable again. The versatility of this dish has made it more than just a recipe – it's become a framework for countless nutritious meals that have sustained us through busy seasons, tight budgets, and changing preferences. When friends ask for my go-to weeknight dinner recommendation, this is invariably what I share, knowing it will serve them as faithfully as it has served us.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works great. Just thaw it first and drain well to remove excess moisture before adding to the dish.

→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cooking cream, and use nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan alternative instead of cheese.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all components separately and combine them just before serving. The dish reheats well, though you may need to add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

→ What other pasta shapes work well in this recipe?

Any medium-sized pasta works great, including farfalle (bow ties), fusilli, rigatoni, or even fettuccine.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of liquid if needed to revive the sauce.