Broccoli Chicken Cream Pasta

broccoli chicken cream pasta is the ultimate comfort food that blends creamy richness with wholesome, satisfying ingredients. This broccoli chicken cream pasta recipe features juicy chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and al dente pasta, all coated in a velvety cream sauce that’s quick and easy to make. Whether it’s for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, broccoli chicken cream pasta delivers everything you want in a hearty, one-pot dish. At Eminent Recipes, we believe great food should be simple and memorable—exactly what this broccoli chicken cream pasta offers every time you make it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of broccoli chicken cream pasta—it’s creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. This dish is a delicious way to turn simple pantry staples into a weeknight favorite. Broccoli adds a fresh, healthy touch, perfectly balancing the richness of the cream and chicken. Whether you’re craving easy creamy chicken and broccoli pasta or looking for a quick dinner fix, this recipe delivers. It’s kid-friendly, flexible, and fast enough for busy evenings, yet satisfying enough to feel like a treat. Once you try it, you’ll want it on repeat all season long.

Ingredients for This Recipe

Key Ingredients: Chicken, Broccoli, Cream, Pasta

To make a classic broccoli chicken cream pasta, you’ll need simple, fresh ingredients. Start with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and your favorite pasta. The creamy base comes from a mix of butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, giving the dish its signature richness. A dash of lemon juice adds brightness that balances the creamy texture beautifully.

Recommended Pasta Shapes for Cream Sauces

For creamy sauces, shapes like tagliatelle, fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti all work well. Their grooves and folds hold the sauce perfectly, making each bite rich and satisfying—ideal for a comforting creamy chicken and broccoli penne pasta or a cozy pasta bowl.

Best Chicken Cuts for Juicy Results

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite for this recipe because they stay moist and flavorful. However, chicken breasts also work well if cooked properly. Either option pairs perfectly with the creamy base and al dente pasta in this easy chicken and broccoli pasta dinner.

Broccoli: Fresh vs. Frozen – What Works Best

Both fresh and frozen broccoli can be used, but fresh broccoli florets offer better texture and color. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid a watery sauce. Whichever you choose, broccoli brings nutrients and vibrant color to this healthy broccoli chicken cream pasta.

Cream Choices: Heavy Cream, Milk, or Dairy-Free Options

Heavy cream delivers the richest result, but you can substitute with whole milk, half-and-half, or even dairy-free cream alternatives for a lighter twist. If you’re making a broccoli chicken cream pasta without cream, try using a roux with milk and cheese or cream of chicken soup as a shortcut.

Optional Add-Ins: Garlic, Cheese, and Herbs

Don’t skip the fresh garlic cloves, which add depth to the sauce. Toss in herbs like dried thyme, oregano, or basil to boost the aroma. Top everything with more Parmesan cheese for an irresistible finish. For extra flavor, add crushed red pepper, mushrooms, or even Philadelphia cream cheese for a tangy twist.

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by chopping boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season well with salt, black pepper, and optional herbs like dried thyme or oregano. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken in olive oil or butter until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. This builds the base flavor for your broccoli chicken cream pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli Perfectly

Fresh broccoli florets should be lightly steamed or boiled until just tender—about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain and set aside. For easy chicken and broccoli pasta, avoid overcooking, which can make the broccoli mushy. If you’re using frozen broccoli, let it thaw and pat dry to prevent watering down your sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce Without Curdling

In the same pan used for the chicken, melt butter, then sauté minced garlic and herbs. Pour in heavy cream and a splash of lemon juice, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the sauce and stir to coat. Let it cook for a few minutes so the flavors meld together. Stir in plenty of grated Parmesan cheese for that signature richness found in creamy chicken and broccoli penne pasta.

Step 4: Combine Everything for a Rich and Balanced Dish

Cook your pasta of choice (like tagliatelle, penne, or rigatoni) until al dente, reserving some of the pasta water. Toss the pasta with your creamy chicken and broccoli mixture, adding a few tablespoons of reserved water to help the sauce cling. This final touch transforms the dish into a creamy, dreamy, and fully balanced healthy broccoli chicken cream pasta. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving hot.

Check out our twist on comfort food with this healthy buffalo chicken pasta bake. Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake Healthy

Expert Cooking Tips

To avoid overcooked broccoli, blanch it briefly to maintain its color and crunch. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are best for juicy, flavorful results—cook them until golden brown, but avoid overcooking, which can lead to rubbery chicken. For a creamy, smooth sauce, always whisk the heavy cream slowly and consistently to prevent clumps. When seasoning, fresh garlic and a dash of lemon juice enhance the flavor, making your creamy chicken and broccoli penne pasta irresistible. Short on time? Use cream of chicken soup as a shortcut to a creamy sauce for your easy broccoli chicken cream pasta.

Don’t miss our rich and cheesy take on garlic parmesan pasta perfection. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Twisted Pasta

Proper Storage and Reheating

To store leftovers, place your broccoli chicken cream pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of heavy cream or pasta water to prevent it from drying out. If you’re freezing, be aware that the cream sauce may separate. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat with extra cream for a smooth, creamy result.

Looking for inspiration? Try this light but flavorful Tuscan-style chicken pasta. Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe You’ll Make Again and Again

Learn more about creamy pasta dishes packed with garlic and parmesan goodness. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Making broccoli chicken cream pasta at home is not only easy, it’s incredibly rewarding. This one-pan wonder brings together creamy sauce, savory chicken, and nutrient-packed broccoli in a meal that everyone loves. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, broccoli chicken cream pasta deserves a regular spot in your weekly rotation. It’s quick, flexible, and endlessly delicious. Want more inspiration? Try variations like chicken broccoli pasta no cream or creamy chicken and broccoli penne pasta for a new twist. Keep exploring, keep cooking—and make every meal comforting and memorable.

Broccoli Chicken Cream Pasta

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• Author: Savannah
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A creamy, garlic-infused pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a balanced and satisfying one-pan meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight and comforting enough for a weekend treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

🛒 Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well)

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 ½ cups milk (2%, almond, or oat milk)

• ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)

• 1 tablespoon flour or cornstarch (for thickening)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup cream cheese or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

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Instructions

📝 Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta & Broccoli:

• Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions.

• During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot.

• Drain pasta and broccoli together and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Season chicken with salt and pepper.

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

• Sauté chicken for 5–7 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Cream Sauce:

• In the same pan, lower heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

• Whisk in flour to make a light roux.

• Slowly add milk and chicken broth while whisking until smooth.

• Simmer until slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes).

• Stir in Parmesan and cream cheese or yogurt. Add red pepper flakes if using.

4. Combine & Serve:

• Add cooked chicken, broccoli, and pasta to the sauce. Toss until well coated.

• If needed, thin the sauce with a splash of pasta water.

• Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and extra cheese if desired.

Notes

📝 Tips & Variations:

1. Make it lighter: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk and skip cream cheese.
2. Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or peas with the broccoli.
3. Make it cheesy: Stir in shredded mozzarella or fontina for stretchier texture.
4. Spicy twist: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
5. Meal prep-friendly: Stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course, Pasta
• Method: Sautéed, Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired