Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe in 30 Minutes

The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil fills the kitchen, mingling with the unmistakable scent of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli. Imagine twirling luscious pasta around your fork, each bite bursting with flavor and comfort. This chicken and broccoli pasta is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on your plate, perfect for cozy dinners or impressing unexpected guests.

It’s Tuesday evening, and you have no idea what to cook. You open the fridge, only to find some chicken breasts, a lonely head of broccoli, and half a box of pasta. Panic sets in until you remember this delightful recipe that turns those humble ingredients into something magical. Grab your apron; let’s whip up this crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for chicken and broccoli pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts will do the trick; adjust as needed based on your hungry crowd.
• Fresh Broccoli: A medium head of broccoli adds crunch and color; cut into bite-sized florets for easy eating.
• Pasta: Choose your favorite type, whether penne or fettuccine; they all work wonderfully.
• Olive Oil: A good splash will keep everything moist while adding flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a punch of flavor; don’t skimp on it!

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese creates a creamy texture that’ll make you swoon.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make chicken and broccoli pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Cut the broccoli into florets so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining!

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on all sides—about 7-10 minutes should do.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Broccoli

Once the chicken is cooked through, add minced garlic to the pan along with your beautiful broccoli florets. Sauté until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender—about another 4 minutes.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the reserved pasta water along with chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to everything.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, add your cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated in that heavenly sauce. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling cheesy!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every forkful of this comforting dish that makes even Tuesday nights feel special.

So there you have it—a delightful chicken and broccoli pasta that’s easy enough for any night but impressive enough for company! Enjoy cooking (and eating) this dish as much as I do!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to golden perfection, which locks in those juicy flavors. While that’s happening, boil your pasta al dente. Finally, toss everything together in a creamy sauce that ties it all together like a warm hug.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the broccoli for asparagus or spinach if you’re feeling adventurous. Experiment with different spices like garlic powder or fresh herbs to give it a unique twist. You could even add some shredded cheese on top for a gooey finish.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out in the microwave. Heat until warmed through, and you’re good to go!

I once made this chicken and broccoli pasta for a family gathering, and everyone kept asking for seconds—my niece even declared me “the best chef ever!” Moments like that remind me why I love cooking.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for chicken and broccoli pasta?

To prepare chicken and broccoli pasta, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, your choice of pasta (like penne or fettuccine), olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. For flavor, consider adding salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. This combination creates a deliciously balanced dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

How long does it take to make chicken and broccoli pasta?

Making chicken and broccoli pasta typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 to 30 minutes cooking everything together. This quick preparation makes it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or when you want something tasty in a hurry.

Can I make chicken and broccoli pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chicken and broccoli pasta ahead of time. Cook the dish as directed but leave out the pasta until you’re ready to serve. Store the chicken and broccoli mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the pasta and combine everything together for a quick meal.

What are some variations of chicken and broccoli pasta?

You can easily customize chicken and broccoli pasta by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. For a creamier sauce, mix in heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative. You could also swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu if you prefer a different protein source, maintaining the dish’s balance of flavors.

Planning your weekly menu? Browse these dinner recipe ideas for more delicious inspiration.

Conclusion for chicken and broccoli pasta :

In summary, chicken and broccoli pasta is a deliciously simple meal that comes together quickly. By using fresh ingredients like tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and your favorite pasta, you create a fulfilling dish that everyone will love. Whether you choose to add some spice or keep it classic with garlic and Parmesan cheese, this recipe offers versatility for any occasion. Enjoy this hearty dish on busy weeknights or serve it at gatherings—it’s always a hit!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Delicious Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This chicken and broccoli pasta is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal perfect for any night of the week.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium head of fresh broccoli, cut into florets
• 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. 1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Cut the broccoli into florets.
2. 2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. 3. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 7-10 minutes.
4. 4. Add Garlic and Broccoli: Once chicken is cooked through, add minced garlic and broccoli to the skillet. Sauté until broccoli is bright green and slightly tender, about 4 minutes.
5. 5. Create the Sauce: Pour in reserved pasta water and chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted into a creamy sauce.
6. 6. Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well-coated with sauce. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg