Savory Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Crafting a delightful chicken and broccoli pasta can spark joy in your kitchen faster than you might expect.

Weeknight dinners become magical when simple ingredients blend into something extraordinary.

Pasta lovers often seek quick, nutritious meals that don’t compromise on flavor.

Fresh broccoli and tender chicken create a perfect protein-packed combination that satisfies hunger and delights taste buds.

Creamy sauces or light olive oil dressings can elevate this classic dish to new culinary heights.

Home cooks appreciate recipes that come together effortlessly yet taste like restaurant-quality cuisine.

One bite of this comforting meal will have everyone asking for seconds – so let’s get cooking!

How To Store Chicken and Broccoli Pasta The Right Way

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, sealing tightly and storing for up to 2 months; label with date for tracking.
• Place portion on microwave-safe plate, sprinkle few drops of water to prevent drying, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute warmth evenly.
• Warm gently in skillet with splash of chicken broth or olive oil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain moisture, cooking until heated through completely.

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta FAQ Guide

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne is ideal due to its tube-like shape that holds sauce well and provides a great texture when combined with chicken and broccoli.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but thaw and drain it completely to prevent excess moisture that might make the dish watery.

• How do I ensure the chicken stays tender and juicy?

Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces and cook over medium-high heat, avoiding overcooking which can dry out the meat. Aim for golden brown exterior and completely cooked interior.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time for quick weeknight meals.

Why Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Is Always A Good Idea

• Simplify Cooking: Master a delicious one-pan meal that combines protein, vegetables, and pasta without complicated techniques, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with lean chicken protein, fiber-rich broccoli, and satisfying pasta, this dish delivers balanced nutrition in every single bite.
• Quick Kitchen Solution: Transform basic ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Customizable Comfort: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping vegetables, adjusting seasonings, or adding extra cheese to suit personal taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients List For Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Chicken: Protein that adds substance and flavor to the dish, cut into uniform bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
• Penne Pasta: Hearty pasta that serves as the base of the recipe, providing a satisfying and filling component.
• Broccoli Florets: Nutritious green vegetable that adds color, texture, and health benefits to the meal.

• Onions, Garlic: Foundational ingredients that create a flavorful base and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Dried Basil, Salt, Black Pepper: Seasonings that add depth, complexity, and balanced flavor to the recipe.

• Olive Oil: Cooking fat that helps sauté ingredients and adds a rich, smooth texture.
• Chicken Broth: Light liquid that creates a delicate sauce and helps blend the ingredients together.
• Parmesan Cheese, Parsley: Garnishes that provide a fresh, bright finish and additional layer of flavor to the dish.

How To Make Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Quickly

Step 1: Trim and Dice Chicken

Cut away any excess fat from chicken and slice into uniform bite-sized cubes for consistent cooking. Ensuring even pieces helps the meat cook perfectly and absorb flavors equally.

Step 2: Boil Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring water to a rolling boil and add penne pasta. Cook until pasta reaches al dente texture, typically between 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain and set pasta aside.

Step 3: Sear Chicken

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and fully done, which takes around 6-7 minutes. The goal is to create a delicious caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and release a fragrant aroma, approximately 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Broccoli

Toss broccoli florets into the skillet. Stir frequently and cook until they transform into a bright green color and become slightly tender, which takes about 4 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Chicken

Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour chicken broth into the pan to create a light, flavorful sauce. Allow ingredients to blend together for 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Season Mixture

Sprinkle dried basil, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly across all ingredients.

Step 8: Add Pasta

Gently fold cooked penne pasta into the skillet. Ensure all components are well combined and heated through.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove skillet from heat. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Transfer to serving plates, making sure each portion has a balanced mix of chicken, broccoli, and pasta.

Pro Tips For Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Success

• Master Protein Distribution: Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized cubes to guarantee consistent cooking and even protein distribution in every serving.
• Pasta Perfect Technique: Cook penne al dente by testing doneness at 8 minutes, preventing mushy texture and maintaining ideal pasta firmness.
• Flavor Layering Strategy: Sauté chicken and vegetables sequentially in the same skillet to build deep, complementary flavor profiles without losing delicious pan remnants.
• Quick Seasoning Hack: Sprinkle dried basil, salt, and pepper directly over the mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure balanced taste throughout the entire dish.
• Fresh Finish Trick: Add freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley just before serving to enhance visual appeal and introduce bright, crisp flavor notes.

Different Takes On Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Vegetarian Pasta Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu cubes, seared until golden, providing a protein-packed alternative for plant-based eaters.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap penne pasta with gluten-free rice or quinoa pasta, maintaining the dish's core flavors while accommodating wheat-sensitive individuals.
• Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate roasted red peppers and swap basil with oregano, introducing a Greek-inspired flavor profile that elevates the classic recipe.
• Spicy Southwestern Spin: Add diced jalapeños, replace parmesan with cotija cheese, and sprinkle chili powder for a zesty, southwest-inspired variation that brings heat and complexity.

Top Sides For Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to complement the light, herbal flavors of the chicken and broccoli pasta, cutting through the richness of the parmesan cheese.
• Elevate with Crusty Bread: Serve a rustic, artisan baguette or sourdough to soak up the delicate chicken broth and provide a satisfying textural contrast to the tender pasta and vegetables.
• Match with Fresh Side Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness and acidity, balancing the savory elements of the main dish and providing a refreshing palate cleanser.

Cozy Chicken And Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty chicken and broccoli pasta promises a comforting culinary journey through creamy textures and robust flavors. Savory chicken, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta combine for a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 lb chicken thighs

Vegetables:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion
• 2 cloves garlic

Pasta and Seasonings:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp dried basil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

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Instructions

1. Prep the chicken by trimming excess fat and cutting into bite-sized cubes, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add penne pasta and cook until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sauté diced chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from skillet, then in the same pan, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
5. Add broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring frequently and cooking until they become bright green and slightly tender, around 4 minutes.
6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet, then pour in chicken broth to create a light sauce, allowing ingredients to meld together for 2-3 minutes.
7. Sprinkle dried basil, salt, and black pepper over the mixture, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
8. Gently fold in cooked penne pasta, ensuring all components are well combined and heated through.
9. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley just before serving.
10. Transfer to serving plates, ensuring each portion has a balanced mix of chicken, broccoli, and pasta.

Notes

• Choose chicken breasts with minimal fat to reduce cooking time and create leaner protein portions.
• Slightly undercook pasta during initial boiling since it will continue cooking when mixed with other ingredients, preventing mushy texture.
• Consider using low-sodium chicken broth to control overall salt content and accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Pat chicken dry before sautéing to achieve perfect golden-brown exterior and prevent steaming instead of browning.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 62 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg