Need dinner fast? This 20-Minute Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is an easy weeknight meal made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, pasta, garlic, and a creamy Parmesan sauce.
Everything comes together in one skillet after the pasta is cooked, making this a simple and satisfying dinner for busy nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 20 minutes
- Easy weeknight dinner
- Creamy garlic Parmesan sauce
- Tender chicken and fresh broccoli
- Simple ingredients
- Family-friendly
- Great for leftovers
- Perfect for busy evenings
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make It
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until tender.
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces and season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden.
3. Add the Garlic
Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet.
Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream.
Stir in Parmesan cheese.
Add reserved pasta water gradually while stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
For a little heat, add red pepper flakes.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
Toss everything together until the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce.
Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Easy Variations
Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta
Add sliced mushrooms while cooking the chicken for extra flavor.
Spicy Chicken Pasta
Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Add shredded mozzarella along with the Parmesan for an extra cheesy sauce.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and a little lemon zest before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces so everything cooks evenly.
Avoid overcooking the broccoli. It should remain slightly crisp for the best texture.
Reserve pasta water before draining. The starch helps create a smooth and silky sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Serve immediately for the creamiest result.
What to Serve With It
This creamy chicken pasta is a complete meal, but it also pairs well with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Dinner rolls
- Steamed green beans
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce as it reheats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pasta works best?
Penne, rotini, bow ties, and shells all work well because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Add frozen broccoli during the final few minutes of pasta cooking and drain everything together.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and give the dish a richer flavor.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add more Parmesan cheese or simmer the sauce gently for another minute or two.
Final Thoughts
20-Minute Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a simple dinner packed with tender chicken, broccoli, pasta, garlic, and creamy Parmesan flavor. It is quick enough for busy weeknights while still feeling like a comforting homemade meal.
Save this recipe to your Quick & Easy Dinner board for your next busy evening.