There’s something irresistible about the combination of juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and creamy, cheesy pasta all tossed together in one pan. This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is that perfect weeknight dinner — rich, hearty, and ready in under 30 minutes.
It’s comfort food that checks every box: creamy, flavorful, and family-friendly. The sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, the broccoli adds a fresh bite, and the chicken makes it satisfyingly filling. Best of all, it’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weekday dinner or craving something cozy on a cool night, this one-pan pasta is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen — creamy, cheesy, and full of love in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- One-pan recipe — minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly balanced with fresh broccoli.
- Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Kid-approved and great for meal prep.
- Comforting, hearty, and completely satisfying.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This dish takes the best of a creamy Alfredo and gives it a wholesome twist with tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests. The sauce is luxuriously creamy without being too heavy — and it coats every piece of pasta perfectly.
It’s a true crowd-pleaser: creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and full of texture and color. Pair it with garlic bread and a green salad, and you’ve got a complete dinner everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work great)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
For the Chicken
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Extra Parmesan cheese
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the pasta and broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the creamy sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add cheese and combine
Whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back into the pan. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Serve and garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving warm.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Use freshly grated Parmesan
Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly — fresh is key for that silky sauce.
Cook pasta al dente
The pasta will continue cooking slightly in the sauce, so don’t overboil it.
Don’t overcook the broccoli
Add it near the end of boiling so it stays vibrant and tender-crisp.
Season the chicken well
It adds depth and prevents the dish from tasting bland.
Simmer the sauce gently
Boiling can cause the cream to separate — keep it on low heat for the perfect consistency.
Adjust thickness
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. Too thin? Add more Parmesan or simmer longer.
Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut
It’s a quick way to make the recipe even easier.
Add lemon zest or juice
A little acidity brightens up the creamy sauce.
Make it extra cheesy
Stir in mozzarella or cream cheese for an even creamier texture.
Serve immediately
Cream sauces thicken as they sit — best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Vegetarian: Omit chicken and add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Bacon Lover’s: Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Garlic Parmesan Twist: Double the garlic and use extra Parmesan for richness.
- Herb Boost: Add basil, oregano, or thyme for an aromatic touch.
- Cream-Free: Use Greek yogurt or milk for a lighter option.
- Pasta Swap: Try shells, fusilli, or bow ties — they hold the sauce beautifully.
- Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Mushroom & Chicken Combo: Add sautéed mushrooms for earthy flavor.
What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Garlic bread or cheesy rolls for dipping.
- Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Roasted asparagus or zucchini for added veggies.
- Grilled corn for a sweet, smoky side.
- Glass of Chardonnay or iced tea for pairing.
- Tiramisu or panna cotta for dessert perfection.
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Cool completely and refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as it reheats.
To Freeze:
Freeze before adding broccoli for best texture. Thaw overnight, reheat, and add steamed broccoli before serving.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Add it directly to the boiling pasta water during the last few minutes of cooking.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes — the sauce will be lighter but still creamy.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Definitely — it’s a great time-saver!
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or oat milk and vegan Parmesan.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells hold the sauce perfectly.
Can I add mushrooms?
Absolutely — sauté them with the garlic for added flavor.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Prepare and refrigerate, then reheat gently with extra cream.
Can I skip the flour?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner — reduce the broth slightly.
How can I make it extra cheesy?
Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar at the end.
Does it taste better the next day?
Yes — the flavors meld beautifully overnight!