Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

If you’re hunting for a comforting yet fresh meal to brighten your dinner table, look no further than Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and easy to make. It’s versatile, brimming with nutrients, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Comforting: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, delivering indulgence in every bite.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Broccoli adds a fresh crunch and essential vitamins, balancing the dish with wholesome greens.
• Quick and Simple: With straightforward steps and common pantry ingredients, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well, making it a great choice for lunches or easy weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: You can easily swap or add ingredients to fit your dietary preferences or what’s in your fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component enhances the dish, whether it’s adding richness, texture, or fresh color.

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Broccoli Florets: Adds a vibrant green pop and satisfying crunch along with nutrients.
• Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): A hearty base that holds the creamy sauce well.
• Garlic: Infuses bold flavor that’s key in every creamy Parmesan sauce.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Creates a luscious, velvety texture for the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty depth and melts perfectly for that signature cheesy finish.
• Butter: Enhances richness and helps sauté garlic and chicken.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing chicken and bringing everything together.
• Salt and Pepper: To season and balance the flavors.
• Italian Seasoning or Fresh Herbs: Provides fragrant herbal notes to brighten the dish.

Variations for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it adapts. Whether you want to cater to dietary needs or just shake things up, here are some fun variations to try.

• Swap the Chicken for Shrimp: For a seafood twist, simply replace chicken with shrimp for a lighter protein.
• Use Zucchini Noodles: Keep it low-carb and veggie-packed by using zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
• Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
• Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy richness that works beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast to recreate the creamy texture without dairy.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook in a skillet with olive oil until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes or steam until bright green and crisp-tender.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your pasta of choice until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use in the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream or half-and-half. Let it simmer gently while adding grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and additional herbs to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Add the cooked chicken, broccoli, and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss everything to combine well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce and ensure every bite is creamy and luscious.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Plate your pasta immediately, and if desired, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper for that final touch.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

• Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor and smoothest melt, always opt for freshly grated Parmesan over pre-shredded cheese.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent mushiness when mixed with the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps loosen the sauce if it gets too thick and helps it cling better to pasta.
• Cut Chicken Evenly: Slice chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
• Season in Layers: Salt and season both the chicken and the sauce to build depth of flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil bring a burst of green color and a hint of freshness. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh cracked black pepper finishes the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp mixed green salad, garlic bread for soaking up extra sauce, or roasted cherry tomatoes to add a sweet, tangy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls to highlight the creamy sauce, or plate with a small side of broccoli florets on top for visual appeal. For entertaining, garnish with edible flowers or a drizzle of truffle oil to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld well overnight, making for even tastier meals the next day.

Freezing

Freeze portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the broccoli texture may soften slightly after thawing, so it’s best for reheated meals rather than fresh presentation.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy sauce, stirring often to prevent sticking or drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well and can save prep time—just steam or blanch it before adding to the pasta to avoid excess moisture.

What pasta works best for creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta with broccoli?

Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni are excellent choices as their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce effectively.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Replace cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a similar cheesy flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy, cheesy texture and mild flavors usually make it a hit even with picky eaters.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

With substitutions like plant-based chicken, dairy-free cream, and vegan Parmesan alternatives, you can easily enjoy a vegan version of this dish.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug, combining simplicity, nutrition, and indulgence all in one plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe promises delicious results that everyone will love. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite dinner!

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• Creamy Garlic Mushrooms

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