Super Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe for Dinner

Tender chicken mingles with vibrant broccoli in this classic chicken and broccoli pasta that promises comfort in every bite.

Weeknight dinners demand quick, satisfying solutions that don’t compromise on flavor.

This recipe combines lean protein with crisp vegetables for a balanced meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

The creamy sauce coats each pasta strand, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Garlic and parmesan cheese add depth and richness to the dish, making it irresistibly delicious.

Fresh ingredients transform simple components into a restaurant-worthy meal you can easily prepare at home.

Prepare to savor a wholesome dinner that will become a family favorite.

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:

Pasta: A classic wheat-based dish with endless flavor possibilities.

Chicken: Tender, protein-packed meat that adds heartiness to the meal.

Broccoli: Bright green vegetable with a crisp and nutritious profile.

• Butter: Rich and creamy ingredient that adds smooth texture.
• Milk: Smooth liquid that helps create a silky sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Flavorful liquid that enhances the overall taste.
• Cheese: Melty and tangy element that brings richness to the dish.

• Onions, Red Pepper Flakes, Dried Tomatoes: Flavor boosters that add depth and complexity.
• Flour: Thickening agent that helps create a smooth sauce.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.

Cooking Directions for Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta and Broccoli

Cook pasta in a large pot according to package instructions until al dente.

During the last three minutes of cooking, add broccoli to the same pot.

Drain the pasta and broccoli, then return them to the pan.

Toss in chopped dried tomatoes.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter.

• Chicken
• Onions
• Seasonings
• Red pepper flakes

Cook until chicken is fully cooked and onions become soft and translucent.

Step 3: Create Creamy Sauce Base

Sprinkle flour over the chicken mixture, stirring thoroughly.

Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.

• Milk
• Chicken broth

Stir and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Finish Sauce with Cheese

Add cheese to the skillet, stirring until completely melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta and broccoli.

Gently stir to ensure everything is well coated.

Serve hot, accompanied by a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread if desired.

Kitchen Tips for Better Broccoli Pasta

• Cook pasta al dente to maintain a slight bite and prevent mushy texture, ensuring the perfect pasta base for your dish.
• Add broccoli during the last three minutes of pasta cooking to retain its vibrant green color, crisp texture, and maximum nutritional value.
• Ensure chicken is thoroughly cooked by checking for no pink center and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety and optimal taste.
• Sprinkle flour gradually and stir continuously to prevent lumps, creating a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta and chicken evenly.
• Add cheese off the heat and stir gently to prevent separation, allowing it to melt smoothly and create a rich, velvety sauce.

Keeping Chicken Broccoli Pasta Fresh

• Store leftover pasta in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days maximum.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Pasta will maintain quality for up to 2 months when properly sealed.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore moisture and prevent sticking. Stir frequently until heated through.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of liquid over the top. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.

What Goes Well with This Pasta Dish

• Crisp White Wine Companion: Select a chardonnay or pinot grigio to complement the creamy chicken pasta sauce, cutting through the richness with bright, refreshing notes.
• Herb-Infused Side Salad: Create a light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the hearty pasta, adding a zesty freshness that contrasts the creamy sauce.
• Garlic Parmesan Bread Boost: Serve warm, toasted garlic bread sprinkled with extra parmesan cheese to provide a crunchy texture and enhance the Italian-inspired flavor profile of the dish.
• Mediterranean Olive Accent: Add a small side of marinated olives to introduce a tangy, salty element that complements the chicken and broccoli, elevating the overall taste experience.

Chicken Pasta Flavor Combos to Try

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce. Swap wheat-based ingredients with gluten-free alternatives to maintain the dish's flavor and texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with olive oil, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives. This variation ensures lactose-intolerant individuals can enjoy the meal.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with plant-based protein such as tofu, tempeh, or white beans. Add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition and maintain the dish's heartiness.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta. Increase protein and reduce carbohydrates while keeping the creamy sauce and vegetable components intact.

FAQs

• What makes this pasta dish balanced and nutritious?

The recipe combines lean protein from chicken, complex carbohydrates from pasta, and fiber-rich broccoli, creating a well-rounded meal with essential nutrients for a complete and satisfying dinner.

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with whole wheat, gluten-free, or other shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini while maintaining similar cooking instructions and overall flavor profile.

• How do I ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly?

Cook chicken over medium heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and no pink remains in the center. Cutting a piece in half can help verify doneness.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This pasta dish can be prepared in advance, stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and reheated gently with a splash of milk to maintain its creamy consistency.

What Makes Chicken Broccoli Pasta So Fulfilling

• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or adjust spice levels to match personal preferences, making it perfect for families with different taste buds.
• Quick Weeknight Dish: Prepare a delicious, balanced meal in under 30 minutes, transforming a potentially stressful dinner into a stress-free experience.
• Nutrient-Packed Delight: Combine protein-rich chicken, fiber-loaded broccoli, and satisfying pasta for a well-rounded, nutritious dinner that keeps everyone energized.

Chicken And Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty chicken and broccoli pasta delivers comfort in each twirling forkful, blending creamy garlic sauce with tender protein and crisp green vegetables. Home cooks will savor this simple Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table.

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Ingredients

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Main Proteins:

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 ounces (85 grams) sun-dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) pipe rigate pasta (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings:

• 2 1/2 cups milk
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Fill a spacious pot with water and prepare pasta to al dente perfection according to package guidelines.
2. During the final three minutes of pasta cooking, introduce broccoli florets into the boiling water.
3. Carefully drain the pasta and broccoli mixture, then transfer back to the original pot.
4. Incorporate chopped dried tomatoes into the pasta blend.
5. Melt butter in a large skillet over moderate heat.
6. Introduce chicken pieces, diced onions, selected seasonings, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
7. Sauté the mixture until chicken is completely cooked and onions become translucent and soft.
8. Dust the chicken mixture with flour, stirring thoroughly to create a light coating.
9. Continue cooking the flour-coated mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
10. Stream milk and chicken broth into the skillet, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
11. Raise heat and bring the liquid to a gentle boil, stirring consistently until the sauce reaches a slightly thickened consistency.
12. Sprinkle cheese into the sauce, stirring until fully melted and integrated.
13. Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta and broccoli, gently folding to ensure even distribution.
14. Transfer to serving dishes, accompanied by optional side salad or crusty garlic bread.

Notes

• Ensure pasta reaches al dente texture by following package instructions precisely, which prevents mushiness and maintains ideal pasta consistency.
• Chop broccoli into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking and better sauce distribution throughout the dish.
• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them thinly for faster, more consistent cooking and easier eating experience.
• Consider substituting whole wheat pasta for added nutrition or gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions without compromising taste and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 65 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg