What is the best way to cook broccoli for creamy chicken pasta?

Blanch fresh broccoli for 3-4 minutes until tender but firm to maintain its bright color and flavor. This method complements broccoli chicken cream pasta perfectly, keeping the broccoli fresh and vibrant.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream in broccoli chicken pasta?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk or half-and-half for heavy cream in broccoli chicken cream pasta for a lighter, less rich option. Add extra cheese to compensate for the creaminess.

How do I make broccoli chicken cream pasta healthier?

To make it healthier, use whole wheat pasta , swap cream for low-fat milk or Greek yogurt , and add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms. This healthy broccoli chicken cream pasta variation is equally delicious!

What spices go well with chicken and broccoli pasta?

Spices like garlic powder , oregano , basil , and crushed red pepper complement the chicken and broccoli in your creamy pasta. A squeeze of lemon juice enhances the freshness in creamy chicken broccoli pasta .

broccoli chicken cream pasta – The Best Creamy Dinner Recipe (2025)

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.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 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

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:

Make it lighter: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk and skip cream cheese.
Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or peas with the broccoli.
Make it cheesy: Stir in shredded mozzarella or fontina for stretchier texture.
Spicy twist: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
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