Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Easy and Flavorful Meal

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- Pasta selection options: You can use 8 oz of fettuccine or any pasta you like. Spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni all work well. - Chicken preparation details: Use 1 lb of chicken breast. Dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly and stay tender. - Broccoli and seasoning specifications: You need 2 cups of broccoli florets. For flavor, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Don’t forget salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Finally, use the zest of 1 lemon for a bright, fresh touch. This mix of ingredients creates a dish that is both creamy and bursting with flavor. Each bite is a delight, thanks to the rich sauce and tender chicken. {{ingredient_image_2}} To cook the pasta, first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I like to add enough salt so the water tastes like the sea. Once it boils, add 8 oz of fettuccine or your favorite pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it's al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add 2 cups of broccoli florets. This way, your broccoli stays bright and crisp. After cooking, drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander. Give them a gentle shake to remove excess water, but be careful not to mash the broccoli. For the chicken, start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season 1 lb of diced chicken breast with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. You want it golden brown and cooked through. To check if it's done, cut a piece in half. If it's white inside, it’s ready. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate. Now, let’s make the garlic cream sauce. In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute while stirring often. You want the garlic to smell amazing but not brown. Next, lower the heat to medium-low. Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring. This helps blend the garlic and oil smoothly. Gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Now it’s time to combine everything. Gently return the cooked chicken, drained fettuccine, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully. Make sure every piece gets coated in that creamy sauce. For the final touch, adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper as needed. Don’t forget to add the zest of 1 lemon for a fresh kick! To serve, plate the creamy chicken broccoli pasta in wide, shallow bowls. This helps show off that luscious sauce. For a beautiful finish, top each bowl with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This not only adds flavor but makes your dish look stunning! To get that perfect creamy texture in your pasta, start with heavy cream. Here’s how to use it well: - Start with cold cream: This helps it blend smoothly into the hot pasta and chicken. - Pour slowly: As you add the cream, stir constantly. This keeps the sauce from clumping. - Use low heat: Keep your stove at medium-low when adding cream and cheese. High heat can break the sauce and make it grainy. For cheese melting, freshly grated Parmesan works best. Here are some tips: - Grate finely: Smaller pieces melt faster and blend better into the sauce. - Add in stages: Mix in a little cheese, stir, then add more. This helps it melt evenly. To boost the flavor of your creamy chicken broccoli pasta, consider these ideas: - Seasoning: Add more Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. A dash of garlic powder also works wonders. - Ingredient swaps: You can use turkey or shrimp instead of chicken. Both add great flavor. - More veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or peas. They add color and nutrients without changing the taste too much. These tips will help you create a delicious meal that feels like a treat! Pro Tips Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for fettuccine or any pasta that holds onto sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful and creamy. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until golden brown and cooked through to keep it tender and juicy. Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or use a light cream alternative. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor in your creamy sauce. {{image_4}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Simply replace the chicken with plant-based options. Tofu or tempeh works well here. Both add protein and texture. For creaminess, try using a different sauce. You can blend cashews to make a creamy sauce. This gives a nutty flavor that blends nicely with broccoli. You can also use other vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach add vibrant color and taste. Just sauté them until tender before mixing them into the pasta. If you need a gluten-free option, select gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer a variety of shapes. Just check the package for cooking times. It may vary from regular pasta. Adjust your cooking method slightly. Gluten-free pasta can clump if overcooked. Stir it often while it cooks to keep it separate. For a flavorful gluten-free sauce, use almond milk or coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps your dish rich and tasty. To keep your creamy chicken broccoli pasta fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and flavor. Make sure to cool it down before sealing the container. Properly stored, it lasts for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over low heat. You can add a splash of cream or broth to help regain its creamy texture. Stir often to ensure even warming. This way, your meal stays tasty and satisfying. You can use milk or half-and-half as dairy options. These will give a lighter version. For non-dairy alternatives, try coconut milk or almond milk. Both can add a nice flavor. Make sure to adjust the seasoning since these options may taste different from heavy cream. Yes, you can use many types of pasta. Penne, rotini, or even whole grain pasta work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking times. Each type may need a different amount of time to cook until tender. This dish goes great with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette adds a nice touch. Garlic bread is another tasty option. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. This dish lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container. Look for changes in smell or texture as signs of spoilage. If it smells off or has mold, it’s best to toss it out. This blog post covered a tasty recipe for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta. We explored the ingredients, detailed cooking steps, and tips for flavor and texture. Don't forget variations for vegetarians and those needing gluten-free options. Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh. I hope these insights help you create a delicious dish. Enjoy cooking and sharing your new masterpiece!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving a dish that’s both creamy and packed with flavor? Look no further! In this blog, I’ll guide you through making Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta—a meal that’s easy to whip up on busy nights. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich garlic cream sauce, this dish will satisfy your taste buds in no time. Join me as we explore each step to create this delightful family favorite!

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Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Deliciously Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and indulgent sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
  3. Healthy Ingredients: With chicken and broccoli, this dish is packed with protein and nutrients, balancing indulgence with health.
  4. Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta types to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– Pasta selection options: You can use 8 oz of fettuccine or any pasta you like. Spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni all work well.

– Chicken preparation details: Use 1 lb of chicken breast. Dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly and stay tender.

– Broccoli and seasoning specifications: You need 2 cups of broccoli florets. For flavor, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Don’t forget salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Finally, use the zest of 1 lemon for a bright, fresh touch.

This mix of ingredients creates a dish that is both creamy and bursting with flavor. Each bite is a delight, thanks to the rich sauce and tender chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli

To cook the pasta, first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I like to add enough salt so the water tastes like the sea. Once it boils, add 8 oz of fettuccine or your favorite pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add 2 cups of broccoli florets. This way, your broccoli stays bright and crisp. After cooking, drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander. Give them a gentle shake to remove excess water, but be careful not to mash the broccoli.

Sautéing the Chicken

For the chicken, start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season 1 lb of diced chicken breast with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. You want it golden brown and cooked through. To check if it’s done, cut a piece in half. If it’s white inside, it’s ready. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.

Preparing the Garlic Cream Sauce

Now, let’s make the garlic cream sauce. In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute while stirring often. You want the garlic to smell amazing but not brown.

Next, lower the heat to medium-low. Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring. This helps blend the garlic and oil smoothly. Gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Combining Ingredients

Now it’s time to combine everything. Gently return the cooked chicken, drained fettuccine, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully. Make sure every piece gets coated in that creamy sauce. For the final touch, adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper as needed. Don’t forget to add the zest of 1 lemon for a fresh kick!

Serving Suggestions

To serve, plate the creamy chicken broccoli pasta in wide, shallow bowls. This helps show off that luscious sauce. For a beautiful finish, top each bowl with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This not only adds flavor but makes your dish look stunning!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving a Creamy Texture

To get that perfect creamy texture in your pasta, start with heavy cream. Here’s how to use it well:

– Start with cold cream: This helps it blend smoothly into the hot pasta and chicken.

– Pour slowly: As you add the cream, stir constantly. This keeps the sauce from clumping.

– Use low heat: Keep your stove at medium-low when adding cream and cheese. High heat can break the sauce and make it grainy.

For cheese melting, freshly grated Parmesan works best. Here are some tips:

– Grate finely: Smaller pieces melt faster and blend better into the sauce.

– Add in stages: Mix in a little cheese, stir, then add more. This helps it melt evenly.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the flavor of your creamy chicken broccoli pasta, consider these ideas:

– Seasoning: Add more Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. A dash of garlic powder also works wonders.

– Ingredient swaps: You can use turkey or shrimp instead of chicken. Both add great flavor.

– More veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or peas. They add color and nutrients without changing the taste too much.

These tips will help you create a delicious meal that feels like a treat!

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for fettuccine or any pasta that holds onto sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful and creamy.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until golden brown and cooked through to keep it tender and juicy.
  3. Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or use a light cream alternative.
  4. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor in your creamy sauce.

Variations

Vegetarian Version

You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Simply replace the chicken with plant-based options. Tofu or tempeh works well here. Both add protein and texture.

For creaminess, try using a different sauce. You can blend cashews to make a creamy sauce. This gives a nutty flavor that blends nicely with broccoli.

You can also use other vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach add vibrant color and taste. Just sauté them until tender before mixing them into the pasta.

Gluten-Free Option

If you need a gluten-free option, select gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer a variety of shapes. Just check the package for cooking times. It may vary from regular pasta.

Adjust your cooking method slightly. Gluten-free pasta can clump if overcooked. Stir it often while it cooks to keep it separate.

For a flavorful gluten-free sauce, use almond milk or coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps your dish rich and tasty.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep your creamy chicken broccoli pasta fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and flavor. Make sure to cool it down before sealing the container. Properly stored, it lasts for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over low heat. You can add a splash of cream or broth to help regain its creamy texture. Stir often to ensure even warming. This way, your meal stays tasty and satisfying.

FAQs

How do I make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta without heavy cream?

You can use milk or half-and-half as dairy options. These will give a lighter version. For non-dairy alternatives, try coconut milk or almond milk. Both can add a nice flavor. Make sure to adjust the seasoning since these options may taste different from heavy cream.

Can I use other pasta varieties for this recipe?

Yes, you can use many types of pasta. Penne, rotini, or even whole grain pasta work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking times. Each type may need a different amount of time to cook until tender.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta?

This dish goes great with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette adds a nice touch. Garlic bread is another tasty option. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

How long does Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta last in the fridge?

This dish lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container. Look for changes in smell or texture as signs of spoilage. If it smells off or has mold, it’s best to toss it out.

This blog post covered a tasty recipe for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta. We explored the ingredients, detailed cooking steps, and tips for flavor and texture. Don’t forget variations for vegetarians and those needing gluten-free options. Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh.

I hope these insights help you create a delicious dish. Enjoy cooking and sharing your new masterpiec

- Pasta selection options: You can use 8 oz of fettuccine or any pasta you like. Spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni all work well. - Chicken preparation details: Use 1 lb of chicken breast. Dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly and stay tender. - Broccoli and seasoning specifications: You need 2 cups of broccoli florets. For flavor, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Don’t forget salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Finally, use the zest of 1 lemon for a bright, fresh touch. This mix of ingredients creates a dish that is both creamy and bursting with flavor. Each bite is a delight, thanks to the rich sauce and tender chicken. {{ingredient_image_2}} To cook the pasta, first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I like to add enough salt so the water tastes like the sea. Once it boils, add 8 oz of fettuccine or your favorite pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it's al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add 2 cups of broccoli florets. This way, your broccoli stays bright and crisp. After cooking, drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander. Give them a gentle shake to remove excess water, but be careful not to mash the broccoli. For the chicken, start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season 1 lb of diced chicken breast with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. You want it golden brown and cooked through. To check if it's done, cut a piece in half. If it's white inside, it’s ready. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate. Now, let’s make the garlic cream sauce. In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute while stirring often. You want the garlic to smell amazing but not brown. Next, lower the heat to medium-low. Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring. This helps blend the garlic and oil smoothly. Gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Now it’s time to combine everything. Gently return the cooked chicken, drained fettuccine, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully. Make sure every piece gets coated in that creamy sauce. For the final touch, adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper as needed. Don’t forget to add the zest of 1 lemon for a fresh kick! To serve, plate the creamy chicken broccoli pasta in wide, shallow bowls. This helps show off that luscious sauce. For a beautiful finish, top each bowl with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This not only adds flavor but makes your dish look stunning! To get that perfect creamy texture in your pasta, start with heavy cream. Here’s how to use it well: - Start with cold cream: This helps it blend smoothly into the hot pasta and chicken. - Pour slowly: As you add the cream, stir constantly. This keeps the sauce from clumping. - Use low heat: Keep your stove at medium-low when adding cream and cheese. High heat can break the sauce and make it grainy. For cheese melting, freshly grated Parmesan works best. Here are some tips: - Grate finely: Smaller pieces melt faster and blend better into the sauce. - Add in stages: Mix in a little cheese, stir, then add more. This helps it melt evenly. To boost the flavor of your creamy chicken broccoli pasta, consider these ideas: - Seasoning: Add more Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. A dash of garlic powder also works wonders. - Ingredient swaps: You can use turkey or shrimp instead of chicken. Both add great flavor. - More veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or peas. They add color and nutrients without changing the taste too much. These tips will help you create a delicious meal that feels like a treat! Pro Tips Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for fettuccine or any pasta that holds onto sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful and creamy. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until golden brown and cooked through to keep it tender and juicy. Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or use a light cream alternative. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor in your creamy sauce. {{image_4}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Simply replace the chicken with plant-based options. Tofu or tempeh works well here. Both add protein and texture. For creaminess, try using a different sauce. You can blend cashews to make a creamy sauce. This gives a nutty flavor that blends nicely with broccoli. You can also use other vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach add vibrant color and taste. Just sauté them until tender before mixing them into the pasta. If you need a gluten-free option, select gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer a variety of shapes. Just check the package for cooking times. It may vary from regular pasta. Adjust your cooking method slightly. Gluten-free pasta can clump if overcooked. Stir it often while it cooks to keep it separate. For a flavorful gluten-free sauce, use almond milk or coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps your dish rich and tasty. To keep your creamy chicken broccoli pasta fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and flavor. Make sure to cool it down before sealing the container. Properly stored, it lasts for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely first. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over low heat. You can add a splash of cream or broth to help regain its creamy texture. Stir often to ensure even warming. This way, your meal stays tasty and satisfying. You can use milk or half-and-half as dairy options. These will give a lighter version. For non-dairy alternatives, try coconut milk or almond milk. Both can add a nice flavor. Make sure to adjust the seasoning since these options may taste different from heavy cream. Yes, you can use many types of pasta. Penne, rotini, or even whole grain pasta work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking times. Each type may need a different amount of time to cook until tender. This dish goes great with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette adds a nice touch. Garlic bread is another tasty option. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. This dish lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container. Look for changes in smell or texture as signs of spoilage. If it smells off or has mold, it’s best to toss it out. This blog post covered a tasty recipe for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta. We explored the ingredients, detailed cooking steps, and tips for flavor and texture. Don't forget variations for vegetarians and those needing gluten-free options. Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh. I hope these insights help you create a delicious dish. Enjoy cooking and sharing your new masterpiece!

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta

A delicious pasta dish featuring creamy sauce, chicken, and broccoli.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • zest of 1 lemon
  • for garnish Fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the final 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set them aside.
  • Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
  • Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
  • Make It Creamy: Lower the heat to medium-low, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to combine the garlic and oil. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Combine Ingredients: Gently return the cooked chicken along with the drained fettuccine and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully, ensuring each component is well coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh, bright flavor.
  • Serve: Plate the creamy chicken broccoli pasta, ensuring a generous coating of sauce is visible. Top with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and aromatic flavor.

Notes

Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce.
Keyword broccoli, chicken, creamy, dinner, pasta

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?