Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance all in one, this Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender chunks of juicy chicken nestled with vibrant green broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious, velvety cream sauce that clings lovingly to each strand of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an irresistible combination that brings a cozy, indulgent feel to the dinner table without any fuss. This recipe is a true celebration of simple ingredients working harmoniously for a meal that feels both special and satisfyingly wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Recipe, we’re keeping things beautifully straightforward. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s building the creamy sauce, adding fresh color and crunch, or delivering tender, flavorful protein that takes this dish to the next level.

• 500 g boneless chicken thighs: These juicy, tender pieces add rich flavor and remain moist throughout cooking.
• 2 tbsp butter: Brings a silky richness to the sauce and helps mellow the garlic’s bite.
• 3 garlic cloves: Minced for a fragrant base that gives the dish a savory punch.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, creating that irresistible creamy texture.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthiness and herbal depth to balance the cream.
• 2-3 cups broccoli florets: Bright, slightly crisp bites that add color and important freshness.
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce with a salty, nutty flavor that rounds everything out.
• 1 tsp lemon juice: A splash of brightness that cuts through the richness and lifts the flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every element.
• 500 g pasta: Cooked al dente, it serves as the perfect vehicle to soak up the luscious sauce.
• 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water: Helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the pasta perfectly.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is crucial for well-seasoned pasta. Add your pasta and cook it until just al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite. Before draining, save about a cup of the cooking water; this starchy liquid will come in handy later to adjust your sauce’s consistency.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, heat a large pan on medium-high heat. Lightly drizzle olive oil over the bite-sized chicken pieces, then season them with salt and pepper. Place them in the hot pan and let them brown, developing a golden crust while cooking through to opaque perfection. Once done, set the chicken aside—this step locks in flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same pan, add the butter along with minced garlic and dried thyme. Sauté everything for about 30 seconds until aromatic, being careful not to burn the garlic. This infuses the butter with deep, herbal notes that set the stage for the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Simmer Cream, Chicken, and Broccoli

Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the browned chicken and broccoli florets back to the pan, partially covering it. Let everything cook together for 5 to 7 minutes—this allows the broccoli to soften slightly while the chicken finishes cooking, and lets all the flavors meld into one irresistible sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Pasta

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add your pasta along with some reserved cooking water as needed. Toss everything gently to coat the noodles evenly with the thick sauce that clings to each bite. Serve it immediately for a warm, comforting meal that everyone will rave about.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of extra Parmesan makes a great finishing touch for this dish. You can also add a crack of black pepper or a few red pepper flakes if you want a subtle kick. These simple garnishes add little pops of color and flavor that enhance the overall experience.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables, which provide refreshing textural contrasts. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic for soaking up any extra sauce, turning your dinner into a complete feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch. Alternatively, try layering it in a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful colors of broccoli and golden chicken against the creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more satisfying the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for a later meal, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces might separate slightly upon thawing, but a gentle reheating with a little added cream or milk can restore the creamy texture beautifully.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or cream if the sauce thickens too much, ensuring each serving warms evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine and will give a leaner texture, but thighs lend more moisture and richness, which complement the creamy sauce perfectly.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but heavy cream gives the best luscious, thick texture that defines the Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more broccoli or try adding sautéed mushrooms for a savory, satisfying replacement.

How do I keep the broccoli bright green and crisp?

Slice the broccoli into small florets and add them during the last few minutes of simmering to prevent overcooking and maintain vibrant color and texture.

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Medium to long shapes like penne, fettuccine, or rotini are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well and mix beautifully with the chicken and broccoli.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to share. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, offering big flavors with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. I hope you give it a try soon and discover just how much warmth and comfort a single meal can bring to your table. Happy cooking!

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 40 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This creamy broccoli chicken pasta is a comforting and delicious dish featuring tender chicken thighs, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich parmesan cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight meal that combines protein, veggies, and comforting carbs in one satisfying plate.

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Ingredients

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Chicken and Vegetables

• 500 g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-size pieces
• 2–3 cups broccoli, sliced into small florets
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed or minced

Cooking and Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, a few teaspoons

Pasta

• 500 g (1 lb) pasta, cooked with 1 cup cooking water reserved

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Instructions

1. Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Brown Chicken: Heat a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle a few teaspoons of olive oil over the chopped chicken thighs and season with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken in the pan for a few minutes until opaque white and starting to turn golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic and Thyme: In the same pan, add butter, crushed garlic, and dried thyme. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and the butter is melted.
4. Create Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer Chicken & Broccoli: Return the browned chicken and broccoli florets to the pan. Partially cover the pan and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender.
6. Add Cheese & Seasoning: Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat in the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce for better coating.
8. Serve: Serve the creamy broccoli chicken pasta immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs if preferred, though thighs stay moister.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting.
• If you like a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of reserved pasta water added.
• This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired