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I've been making this creamy chicken broccoli pasta for years and it never fails to bring everyone to the table with smiles. There's something magical about how the parmesan sauce hugs every piece of pasta while tender chicken and fresh broccoli make it a complete meal in one bowl.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish has saved dinner countless times in my house. It's quick enough for busy weeknights but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The sauce is perfectly creamy the chicken stays juicy and even the kids eat their broccoli without complaining.
What You'll Need
- Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups, fresh or frozen, for added color and nutrition.
- Dried penne pasta: 12 ounces, or any short pasta like rotini or farfalle.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup, for a rich and creamy sauce.
- Chicken broth: 1 ½ cups, to deglaze the pan and add depth to the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup freshly grated, for a nutty, savory flavor.
- Garlic and onion: For aromatic depth and flavor.
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the herby flavors.
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon, for a bright, fresh finish.
- Optional pine nuts: Toasted, for added crunch and a nutty element.
Let's Make It Together
First get your chicken seasoned and cooking in a hot pan until it's golden brown. While that's happening start your pasta water boiling. The key is timing everything just right so the pasta broccoli and sauce all come together perfectly at the end.
Mix It Up
Don't feel tied down to the recipe exactly. Sometimes I use gluten free pasta when my celiac friend visits. Frozen broccoli works great in a pinch and I've even snuck in extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach when I'm feeling sneaky.
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The Secret to Juicy Chicken
Here's my trick for perfect chicken every time don't overcrowd the pan and keep an eye on the temperature. A few minutes per side is usually all it takes. You want that beautiful golden color but still want it juicy inside.
Making It Lighter
Some nights I lighten things up using half and half instead of cream. You can even use evaporated milk in a pinch. The sauce won't be quite as rich but it's still delicious and feels a bit healthier.
Prep Ahead Tips
On busy weeks I'll prep everything ahead chop the chicken and broccoli measure out my ingredients. It makes throwing dinner together so much quicker when I'm rushed after work.
Freezer Friendly
The sauce and chicken freeze beautifully just keep them separate from the pasta and broccoli. When you're ready to enjoy just thaw overnight make fresh pasta and you're good to go.
Perfect for a Crowd
Need to feed a bunch? This recipe doubles easily. I often make a big batch when hosting family dinner everyone from the kids to grandparents loves it.
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Serving Suggestions
We love this with garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce. A simple green salad on the side makes it feel like a proper Italian dinner at home.
The Finishing Touch
Don't skip the fresh herbs and extra parmesan on top they make such a difference. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for the grown ups who like a little heat.
Kid Friendly Version
For my littlest eaters I keep things simple less garlic more cheese. Sometimes I even blend the broccoli right into the sauce they never know it's there but get all the nutrition.
Better Than Takeout
This dish rivals anything you'd get at a restaurant but costs so much less to make at home. Plus you control the ingredients and can adjust everything to your taste.
Seasonal Switch Ups
I love changing this up with the seasons. Butternut squash in fall asparagus in spring. The basic recipe stays the same but the seasonal touches make it special.
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Extra Protein Options
Sometimes I'll add shrimp along with the chicken or swap in some Italian sausage. For vegetarian friends chickpeas work surprisingly well in place of the chicken.
Dairy Free Adaptation
I've made this dairy free for friends using coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. Different but still delicious the sauce stays creamy and satisfying.
Pasta Perfection
While I usually reach for penne any short pasta works great. The little ridges in farfalle or fusilli really grab onto that sauce making every bite perfect.
Broccoli Tips
The trick to perfect broccoli is timing. Add it to the pasta water in the last few minutes and it comes out tender crisp and bright green. No mushy broccoli here.
Healthier Options
Sometimes I use whole grain pasta or even chickpea pasta for extra protein and fiber. The creamy sauce makes any type of pasta taste amazing.
Sauce Secrets
Want to take the sauce up a notch? Add a splash of white wine when you're deglazing the pan. It adds this amazing depth that makes everything taste more sophisticated.
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Meal Prep Magic
This dish is perfect for planning ahead. I often make components separately on Sunday then mix and match through the week for quick delicious dinners.
Date Night Dinner
Don't underestimate this pasta for special occasions. Served with wine and candlelight it feels really special perfect for date night at home.
Perfect Pairings
A light soup or crisp Caesar salad makes this a complete meal. On cozy nights we love starting with minestrone then diving into this creamy pasta.
Budget Friendly
This recipe stretches your grocery budget beautifully. Using simple ingredients in a clever way creates something that tastes expensive but isn't.
Fresh Herb Magic
Fresh herbs make everything better. I love finishing with basil in summer or thyme in winter. They add that professional touch that makes dinner feel special.
Perfectly Cooked Chicken
Keep your chicken juicy by cutting pieces evenly and not overcooking. As soon as they're done take them out of the pan they'll stay perfectly tender.
Spice It Up
Like things hot? Add extra red pepper flakes or try drizzling with chili oil at the end. The heat plays so nicely with the creamy sauce.
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One Pot Wonder
On lazy days I make this all in one pot. It might not be traditional but it works and means less cleanup which is always a win in my book.
Everyone's Favorite
This recipe has become such a staple in our house. It's the kind of meal that brings everyone together and always leaves them asking for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
- You can substitute penne with other medium-sized pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or farfalle. Short pasta works best to hold the creamy sauce and mix well with the chicken and broccoli.
- → How do I store leftover chicken broccoli pasta?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as it thickens when cold.
- → Can I freeze this pasta dish?
- You can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The sauce may separate slightly but will recombine when heated.
- → Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
- Frozen broccoli works fine but may be slightly softer than fresh. Add it during the last minute of cooking the pasta to prevent overcooking and maintain some texture.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
- Save some pasta water before draining and add it gradually to the sauce if it becomes too thick. The starchy water helps create a silky, perfectly-textured sauce.