Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with rich, savory flavors yet comes together quickly on a busy night, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is just the recipe for you. This dish perfectly combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a velvety garlic parmesan sauce tossed with pasta for a comforting, satisfying plate that feels like a special treat but is simple enough for weeknight dinners. The harmonious blend of creamy textures and fresh veggies makes this recipe a reliable crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Creamy and Flavorful: The garlic and parmesan-infused sauce creates a rich, delicious coating that elevates every bite.
• Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish saves you precious time without sacrificing taste.
• Balanced Nutrition: With lean chicken and healthy broccoli, it offers protein and greens you can feel good about.
• One-Pan Cooking Option: Easily adapted for one-pan preparation to minimize cleanup and streamline the process.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can swap ingredients or adjust seasonings to match your preferences effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each bringing its unique role to taste, texture, and colorful presentation. From juicy chicken to fresh broccoli and creamy parmesan, every component contributes to the overall harmony of this dish.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the creamy sauce.
• Broccoli florets: Adds a vibrant pop of green and a fresh, crisp counterpoint to the creamy sauce.
• Pasta (penne or fettuccine): Choose your favorite type for the base; it soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Minced garlic: Essential for that warm, aromatic foundation in the sauce.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates the silky texture that makes this dish so comforting.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides rich, nutty flavor that defines the sauce’s character.
• Butter: For sautéing and a touch of indulgence.
• Olive oil: Helps to brown the chicken and adds fruity undertones.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that balance and enhance the entire dish.
• Optional red pepper flakes: For a subtle spicy kick if you like your pasta with a bit of heat.

Variations for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

This recipe is incredibly easy to customize, whether you need to accommodate dietary needs or just want to experiment with flavors and textures. Feel free to get creative with substitutions and additions to make it your own.

• Swap protein: Replace chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different protein punch.
• Vegetable swaps: Use asparagus or peas in place of broccoli for seasonal variety.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a low-fat cream alternative.
• Go gluten-free: Opt for gluten-free pasta to keep the dish safe for sensitive diets.
• Add herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can add a bright herbal note alongside the parmesan.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, and chop the broccoli into florets. Mince the garlic finely and measure out your cream and parmesan. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, drain, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli and Garlic

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, then toss in the broccoli. Cook for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp but still bright green.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Let the cream simmer gently until slightly thickened, then stir in the grated parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, making sure the creamy sauce coats the chicken, pasta, and broccoli evenly. Heat through for a minute or two before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Keep it bright and crisp to avoid a mushy texture lurking in the cream sauce.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and delivers more vibrant flavor than pre-grated.
• Sear chicken well: Achieving a golden crust locks in juices and adds depth of flavor.
• Simmer sauce gently: Avoid boiling cream to keep it from curdling or separating.
• Reserve pasta water: Use a splash to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra parmesan, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil make perfect finishing touches that brighten and elevate the dish.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad or warm garlic bread pairs beautifully, providing texture contrast and soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls for an inviting, cozy feel or plate elegantly with a sprig of fresh herb on top for dinner parties that impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before reheating to redistribute the sauce.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prep in bulk—store in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to revive the luscious texture and prevent dryness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or even fusilli all work wonderfully with this creamy sauce, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach; you can also use a plant-based alternative for added protein.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

For a thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer; for a thinner sauce, stir in reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk to maintain creaminess without heavy cream, though the flavor will slightly change.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and broccoli in advance and assemble the dish later, then simply warm it all together before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is one of those comforting, flavorful dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe goes from pantry staples to a gorgeous meal with minimal fuss. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite weeknight go-to!

Related Posts

• Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce
• Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle
• Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy

Print