Creamy Garlic Chicken And Broccoli Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken And Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) penne pasta; 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty House Classics

When I first tried making Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, I couldn't believe how quickly it came together and how delightful it tasted. Each bite was a perfect blend of creamy goodness, garlicky flavor, and nutritious broccoli. This dish has quickly become a weeknight favorite in our home, allowing us to indulge in comfort food without excessive effort. I love how the sauce clings to the pasta, making every forkful satisfying and rich while still being balanced with the crunch of fresh broccoli.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:53:36.944Z

One sunny afternoon, I decided to experiment in the kitchen, aiming to create a dish that combined convenience and flavor. After a bit of trial and error, I discovered that cooking the garlic until fragrant before adding the cream truly enhances the overall flavor. This technique allows the garlic to seep into the sauce, achieving a depth that makes each bite unforgettable.

As I plated the dish for dinner, I was amazed at the vibrant colors contrasting against the creamy sauce. The addition of broccoli not only adds nutrition but also a lovely texture. I love how this recipe beautifully combines comfort with a touch of elegance, making it ideal for both a quiet family meal and entertaining guests.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic
Nutritious broccoli adds texture and color
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of pasta is key in this dish. Penne pasta's tubular shape helps trap the creamy sauce and ensures every bite is filled with flavor. You can easily substitute with other shapes like rigatoni or fussili, but avoid delicate pastas like angel hair, which won't hold up against the hearty sauce and ingredients. Always remember to cook the pasta al dente; it should have a slight bite to it even after mixing with the sauce.

Broccoli florets not only add vibrant color to your plate but also bring a satisfying crunch and nutritional boost. For a twist, consider substituting with snap peas or asparagus, which can be added during the last few minutes of pasta cooking. Be cautious not to overcook the broccoli; it should remain bright green and crisp, ensuring it contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Perfecting Your Sauce

When making the creamy garlic sauce, timing is crucial. Add the minced garlic just before pouring in the heavy cream to avoid burning it; garlic can quickly turn bitter. Sauté it until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes, which will infuse the oil and prepare your base for the cream. The sauce should reach a gentle simmer before adding the cheese—this is where it will emulsify, becoming silky and coating the pasta beautifully.

For those watching their calorie intake, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. However, keep in mind this may alter the texture and richness. If you desire less cheese, opt for a mixture of Parmesan and nutritional yeast to maintain a cheesy flavor without the heaviness.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

12 oz (340g) penne pasta
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can elevate your serving by garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh kick. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful touch of warmth.

For leftovers, consider packing it into meal prep containers for lunch the next day. A quick reheat in the microwave should suffice, but I suggest adding a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to revive the creaminess, as it can thicken when stored.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding additional protein. Shrimp, for example, can be a wonderful addition. Simply sauté it alongside the chicken, ensuring it cooks through until it’s pink and opaque. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

Adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach can also introduce a new dimension to this pasta. They not only enhance the flavor profile but also increase the nutritional value of your dish. Incorporate these ingredients during the sauce preparation stage to allow their flavors to meld into the creamy base.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter option.

→ Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta in place of regular penne.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance the dish.