Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a wholesome and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta, all brought together with a simple yet flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and carbs. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great go-to for busy evenings when you want something comforting yet healthy.
The chicken is usually seasoned with a few basic spices and then sautéed until golden brown and juicy. Broccoli florets are lightly cooked until they are tender but still vibrant and crisp, adding a lovely freshness and a healthy dose of vitamins to the dish. The pasta, whether penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, provides a sturdy base for the ingredients, soaking up the sauce and tying everything together.
The sauce in Chicken and Broccoli Pasta can vary, but it’s often a light garlic and olive oil base, sometimes with a splash of chicken broth or a touch of cream to add richness. A bit of Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled over the top for added flavor and creaminess. The beauty of this dish is that the sauce doesn’t overwhelm the ingredients; instead, it allows the flavors of the chicken, broccoli, and pasta to shine.
This dish is also highly versatile. You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or toss in some pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. For those looking to make it a bit heartier, you can incorporate some cooked bacon or sausage.
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, offering a filling meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. It’s an easy-to-make dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 ounces pasta such as penne or fusilli
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Meh, just another pasta dish. Not very exciting. My kids barely touched it. 2 stars for effort.
Yum! Easy to make and delish! I added some red pepper flakes for kick. Will be on my dinner rotation for sure. 5 stars!
That sounds great! I love adding spicy stuff to my meals too. Red pepper flakes are a good choice! Can’t wait to try this recipe! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Honestly, it seems too easy to be that good. Are you sure it’s not just basic? I might try it, but I got my doubts. 🤔
This recipe was amazing! The chicken was juicy and the garlic gave it such a nice flavor. Definitely a 5-star meal! Will make again!
I’m glad you loved it! The combo of garlic and chicken really makes a difference! I added some red pepper flakes for extra kick. Will definitely make it again too!
I dunno what everyone is raving about. Mine turned out kinda dry. Also, should the garlic be cooked longer? Taste was off for me.
It was okay, but I’m not sure about the broth. Seemed odd. Maybe shoulda added more cheese or something. 3 stars.
I thought chicken & broccoli were 4 a side dish? But this pasta is surprisingly good!
I always thought of chicken and broccoli as a side too! But pasta makes it a whole meal! Glad you liked it!
Yummy! I don’t know about parmesan tho, I used cheddar instead. Still great!
Five stars? I dunno, I’m not a chef lol. But my kids ate it all, so… yeah. broccoli not too mushy either.
This was amazing! The chicken was so juicy and the broccoli added a nice crunch. Will definitely make this again!
This recipe is a lifesaver! So easy and delicious. My kids loved it 🙂
easy and quick! Perfect for weekdays! 👌
Totally agreed! I made this last night and it was delicious! 😋
Chicken? I thought it was beef! 🤔 Still tasted fine tho.
It was good, but I think it needed more flavor. Maybe some spices could help? Just a thought.
I totally agree! A bit more seasoning would make it pop! Try adding some red pepper flakes for a kick!
Best pasta ever! 🥳
Looks good but can you really call it the best? 🤔 I mean, chicken and broccoli? Seems a bit basic.
I totally agree! This pasta dish is a game-changer! 😍
Perfect for a weeknight dinner! I used macaroni instead of penne. Still turned out great!
Kinda bland. I added some red pepper flakes and it helped but still not my fav.
Good recipe but maybe add some lemon juice? I think it would brighten up the flavors.
My family loved it! I added mushrooms too. 10/10 would eat again.
I thought chicken needed to be cooked longer, but was good overall. Fast dinner tho.
Glad you liked it! Chicken can be tricky, but in this recipe, it cooks fast with the broth. Happy cooking!
I didn’t have parmesan, used cheddar instead. It was… okay, but not the same. Don’t recommend changing the cheese.
I agree, parmesan gives it that special flavor! Cheddar just doesn’t cut it. Stick to the recipe for best results.
But cheddar is really good too! I think it just depends on your taste. I might try it your way next time.
Not enough flavor. Didn’t really taste the garlic. Add more next time!
But didn’t the recipe say just 3 cloves? That’s like enough, right? Maybe it’s just your taste buds. 🤔
I totally agree! The garlic flavor could really pack a punch if you add more. Maybe even some roasted garlic would do the trick!