Craving something that feels like comfort city on a plate? This creamy and flavorful chicken and broccoli pasta is the ideal solution for any busy weeknight dinner. Tender chunks of chicken nestle between vibrant green broccoli florets and al dente penne pasta, all swimming in a rich, velvety sauce infused with a bright hint of lemon zest. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up dinner in under 30 minutes, making this savory dish perfect for those nights when time is short but flavor can’t be compromised. Whether you’re looking for a quick recipe to feed the family or a fuss-free lunch for yourself, this dish delivers that irresistible blend of hearty protein, fresh veggies, and indulgent cream.
I still remember the first time I tried this recipe on a chilly Tuesday evening. I had just finished a long day and was craving something warm and uplifting. As soon as the garlic hit the hot skillet and the chicken started to sizzle, my kitchen was filled with those welcoming scents that promise a satisfying meal. In mere minutes, I had a steaming plate of dinner that felt both luxurious and familiar. With a prep time of only 10 minutes, a cooking time of about 20 minutes, and roughly 600 calories per serving, it’s a beginner-friendly recipe that punches well above its weight in both taste and convenience. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this creamy chicken and broccoli pasta will quickly become a weeknight staple.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PASTA
Before diving into the skillet, let’s break down the stars of this recipe and talk about how each component contributes to the creamy, tangy, and savory profile of the dish.
- Penne Pasta
A ridged, tubular shape that traps sauce inside and out, giving you a perfect bite every time. Its sturdy structure holds up well in the creamy sauce without turning mushy.
- Olive Oil
Provides a fruity, slightly peppery base for sautéing. It helps brown the chicken and softens the broccoli, setting the stage for deeper flavor development.
- Chicken Breasts
Lean protein cut into bite-sized pieces. When cooked until golden brown, these tender morsels add heartiness and soak up the rich sauce.
- Salt and Pepper
Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural taste. Proper seasoning balances the dish and highlights the creaminess and citrus notes.
- Broccoli Florets
Bright green florets that add color, texture, and a fresh vegetal contrast to the creamy sauce. They remain slightly crisp, offering a pleasant bite.
- Garlic Cloves
Pungent and aromatic, garlic infuses the oil and vegetables with its distinctive warmth, building depth in every spoonful.
- Chicken Broth
Adds savory umami and thins the sauce slightly so it can envelop the pasta and vegetables more evenly.
- Heavy Cream
The backbone of the sauce, lending a silky texture and mild richness that binds all ingredients together.
- Parmesan Cheese
Nutty and salty, this cheese melts into the sauce, thickening it and delivering that classic Italian flair.
- Lemon Zest
Brings a bright citrus pop that cuts through the richness, keeping the flavor profile balanced and lively.
- Lemon Juice
Adds tangy freshness, complementing the cream and Parmesan while waking up the palate.
- Red Pepper Flakes
Optional but highly recommended for a gentle heat that contrasts the cool creaminess and bright lemon notes.
- Fresh Parsley
A final herbal garnish that brings an earthy, green finish, adding freshness with every forkful.
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PASTA
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! This section will guide you step by step through creating that luscious sauce, perfectly cooked chicken, and vibrant broccoli, before uniting everything into one irresistible dish.
1. Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside so it’s ready when the sauce is at its peak creaminess.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until each piece is golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Using the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring so they turn bright green and become slightly tender without losing their crispness.
4. Push the broccoli to one side, add the minced garlic, and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant—this builds an aromatic base for the sauce.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. This step allows the broccoli to absorb extra flavor and the broth to reduce slightly.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well, ensuring every piece of chicken and broccoli is coated in the creamy, lemony sauce.
8. Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta, combining it thoroughly with the sauce, chicken, and broccoli so every bite is balanced.
9. Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, scooping up all that creamy goodness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PASTA
After all that sizzling and stirring, you’re moments away from diving into a bowl of cream-laced pasta awesomeness. Serving this chicken and broccoli pasta is a chance to elevate the experience beyond the plate and make each bite feel like an occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or plating it for a cozy solo meal, a few thoughtful touches will transform this straightforward comfort food into something spectacular. Below are some ideas to help you present and enjoy your creation to its fullest potential.
- Serve Family Style
Transfer the pasta to a large shallow bowl or platter and let everyone help themselves. The communal vibe makes dinner feel warm and inclusive, perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or even a pinch of microgreens on top just before serving. The bright green pop elevates the visual appeal and adds a fresh, herby aroma.
- Pair with a Crisp White Wine
A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the richness of the sauce, offering zesty acidity that complements the lemon elements and fresh broccoli.
- Serve with Crunchy Bread
Provide slices of warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette on the side. It’s perfect for mopping up every last bit of creamy sauce and adds a satisfying textural contrast.
HOW TO STORE CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PASTA
Storing leftovers doesn’t have to mean soggy pasta or dull flavors. With a few simple steps, you can preserve the creamy sauce, keep the chicken juicy, and maintain that satisfying bite of broccoli, ready for future meals. Below are some tried-and-true methods to make sure each serving tastes nearly as good as the first time around.
- Refrigeration in an Airtight Container
Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into a well-sealed container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This method prevents moisture loss and keeps flavors vibrant.
- Freezing Individual Portions
For longer storage, divide the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Press out excess air before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—ideal for meal prep or unexpected busy nights.
- Gentle Skillet Reheat
To revive refrigerated or thawed pasta, place it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream. Stir gently until warmed through, adding a little extra liquid as needed to restore creaminess.
- Microwave Refresh
For a quick fix, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle a teaspoon of water or broth over the top, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. This helps keep the sauce from drying out.
CONCLUSION
We’ve taken a journey through every step of crafting this creamy and flavorful chicken and broccoli pasta, from gathering the key ingredients to mastering the skillet technique, and even exploring serving suggestions and storage tips. This dish earns its place as the perfect weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch—combining tender chicken, bright broccoli, and al dente penne in a luscious sauce studded with garlic, Parmesan, and a refreshing burst of lemon zest. With only 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time, it’s a beginner-friendly recipe that delivers on both ease and flavor. And with about 600 calories per serving, it strikes a satisfying balance between indulgence and familiarity. Feel free to print this article and save it for later use, so it’s always on hand when you need a fuss-free yet impressive meal. You’ll also find a FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions about technique or ingredient swaps.
I truly hope this guide inspires you to get into the kitchen and create your own spin on this crowd-pleasing pasta. If you give this recipe a try, please share your thoughts—did the lemon zest give it that perfect zing? Did you sneak in extra veggies like spinach or asparagus? Any feedback or questions you have are always welcome, whether you’re curious about adjusting spice levels or need help troubleshooting a too-thin sauce. Drop a comment below with your experiences, tips, or requests. Happy cooking!
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Description
This savory dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich creamy sauce with a hint of lemon zest. It's comfort food at its best!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender.
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Add minced garlic to the broccoli and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the broccoli to cook further and absorb the flavor.
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Stir in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
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Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes, if using. Mix well until everything is coated with the creamy sauce.
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Gently fold in cooked penne pasta, combining it thoroughly with the broccoli and chicken mixture.
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Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Note
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- For an extra dose of green, add spinach or asparagus.
- Try sprinkling additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc.
