This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is quick and tasty! With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and hearty pasta, it makes a satisfying meal in no time.
Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, so you spend less time washing dishes! I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for that cheesy goodness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini is a great choice for this dish since its spirals hold onto the creamy sauce well. If you can’t find rotini, feel free to use penne or fusilli for similar results. Avoid spaghetti, as it doesn’t grip the sauce as effectively.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a vibrant crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli can work too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe for their lean protein. You can substitute with cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience or even use shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream can work in place of heavy cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly. I personally prefer the richness of heavy cream!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives the dish a salty, nutty flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, use a plant-based Parmesan substitute. Pecorino Romano is another great cheese that can add extra sharpness as well.
How Do I Get Creamy Sauce Without It Splitting?
The key to achieving a creamy sauce without splitting is to control the heat and gradually combine the ingredients. Here’s how:
- After adding the garlic to the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low before pouring in the chicken broth and cream.
- Allow the mixture to simmer gently—this helps in thickening the sauce without boiling, which can cause the cream to separate.
- When adding the Parmesan cheese, do so gradually while stirring to ensure it melts evenly into the sauce.
Keeping the sauce at medium-low ensures it stays smooth and creamy throughout the cooking process! If your sauce seems too thick, a splash of pasta cooking water can help loosen it up and keep it silky.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta dish takes about 30 minutes total. Expect around 10 minutes for prep time and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and filling meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. About 3-4 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This way, they will blanch nicely and stay vibrant. After everything is cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli together and set them aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on the outside and cooked through. After it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can taste bitter!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. This is where the magic happens!
5. Add the Cheese:
Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes nice and creamy.
6. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If you think it needs a little more flavor, adjust it with extra salt and pepper based on your taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Pasta hot. You can garnish it with more Parmesan cheese and some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta can add extra fiber and a nutty flavor to the dish. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta made from brown rice or chickpeas, which works well in this recipe.
How Can I Cook the Chicken Uniformly?
To ensure even cooking, cut the chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to achieve a nice sear.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! If you’re out of chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even just water. The flavor might be milder, so you might want to enhance it with additional spices or seasonings to compensate.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just cool the pasta entirely and place it in an airtight container. It will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
