If you’re craving a comforting dinner that feels indulgent but is still simple to make, this Easy Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and pasta are coated in a rich, velvety cream sauce that comes together quickly and tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or anytime you want a reliable crowd-pleaser that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
There are so many reasons this recipe deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
First, it’s quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have this meal on the table in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights when time is limited.
Second, the cream sauce is luxuriously rich without being overwhelming. The combination of heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan creates a smooth, silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Third, it’s family-friendly. The flavors are comforting and familiar, and the broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering the dish.
Finally, it’s versatile. You can easily customize it with different pasta shapes, vegetables, or protein swaps depending on what you have on hand.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Main Ingredients
- Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, tagliatelle, rigatoni, or spaghetti all work well
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets
- Heavy cream: The base of the rich sauce
- Butter: Adds depth and richness
- Garlic: Freshly minced for best flavor
- Parmesan cheese: Finely grated for a smooth sauce
- Olive oil: For cooking the chicken
- Lemon juice: Balances the creaminess
- Dried herbs: Thyme, oregano, or basil
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Reserved pasta water: Helps loosen the sauce if needed
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Chicken:
Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but chicken breasts work just as well. Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces so it cooks quickly and evenly.
Broccoli:
Fresh broccoli is best for texture and color. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it well before adding to the sauce.
Cream:
Heavy cream gives the richest result. For a slightly lighter version, you can replace up to half with whole milk or half-and-half, though the sauce will be thinner.
Parmesan Cheese:
Always use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can make the sauce grainy.
Pasta Water:
This starchy water is key for creating a silky sauce that coats the pasta evenly. Don’t skip reserving it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about one cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add them to the pan in a single layer and cook until golden and cooked through, turning once. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3 – Build the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and allow it to melt. Stir in the minced garlic and dried herbs, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4 – Add Broccoli and Cheese
Add the broccoli florets to the sauce and simmer until they are tender-crisp and bright green. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
Step 5 – Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
- Salt the pasta water generously for well-seasoned pasta
- Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should stay vibrant and slightly crisp
- Simmer, don’t boil, the cream sauce to prevent splitting
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest texture
- Add pasta water gradually to avoid thinning the sauce too much
- Serve immediately for the best creamy texture
Flavor Variations
- Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella or fontina along with the Parmesan
- Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic for a bolder flavor
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the chicken
- Herb Upgrade: Finish with fresh parsley or basil
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides.
- Garlic bread or crusty bread
- A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted cherry tomatoes
- Steamed green beans or asparagus
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezer:
Cream-based sauces can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat slowly while stirring.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~620 |
| Protein | ~35g |
| Carbohydrates | ~52g |
| Fat | ~32g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~680mg |
Values are estimates and will vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making in advance, slightly undercook the pasta and add extra cream when reheating.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds the sauce well, while long pasta like fettuccine gives a more elegant, restaurant-style feel.
How do I keep the sauce from separating?
Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling once the cream is added. Stir frequently.
Can I make it lighter?
Yes. Replace half the cream with whole milk and reduce the Parmesan slightly. The sauce will still be flavorful but less rich.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The flavors are mild, creamy, and comforting, making it a favorite with kids and adults alike.
Easy Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Equipment
- large pot
- large skillet
- colander
- wooden spoon
- chef’s knife
Ingredients
- 340 g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
- 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into pieces
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or basil)
- salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in garlic and dried herbs and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Add broccoli florets and simmer until tender-crisp. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked pasta, and toss to combine. Use reserved pasta water as needed to adjust sauce consistency. Season to taste and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
This Easy Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is everything you want in a comfort meal: rich, satisfying, and incredibly simple to make. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a silky cream sauce, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.