Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Save this recipe on:

Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect comfort food for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Juicy, golden-brown chicken pieces are coated in a luscious, garlicky cheese sauce, all tossed with tender pasta and fresh broccoli florets. The combination of creamy, savory, and slightly crispy textures will leave you craving every last bite.

This hearty pasta dish is not only delicious but also straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you need something satisfying yet simple. With just the right balance of protein, veggies, and carbs, it’s a wholesome meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. Serve it up with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley, and you’ve got a dish that everyone will adore.

---

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

1. Easy and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
2. Balanced Meal: Packed with protein from chicken, veggies from broccoli, and comforting pasta.
3. Rich Flavor: The garlic-infused creamy cheese sauce is absolutely irresistible.
4. Customizable: Swap broccoli for other veggies like spinach or mushrooms for a unique twist.
5. Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you need:

• Large Pot: Essential for boiling pasta and blanching broccoli. A wide pot ensures even cooking and prevents pasta from clumping together.
• Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan: Perfect for cooking chicken and preparing the creamy sauce. A deep pan helps prevent spills when tossing everything together.
• Tongs or Spatula: Ideal for flipping the chicken and mixing pasta with sauce evenly.
• Colander: Necessary for draining pasta and broccoli efficiently.
• Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: To easily dice chicken and chop broccoli into florets. Sharp knives ensure precise cuts and even cooking.
• Whisk: Useful for mixing the sauce, ensuring it remains smooth and lump-free.

Using quality tools helps streamline the cooking process, ensuring even cooking and better flavor distribution. A non-stick skillet is particularly helpful for getting that golden-brown crust on the chicken without sticking.

---

Preparation Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, broccoli, and garlic enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
2. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents it from turning mushy when mixed with the hot sauce.
3. Season Chicken Well: Generously seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking ensures rich, flavorful bites.
4. Blanch Broccoli: Briefly boiling the broccoli before tossing it in the pasta keeps it vibrant, tender, and crisp.
5. Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta water before draining—it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
6. Don’t Overcook Cheese Sauce: Low and slow is the key to a smooth, creamy sauce. Overheating can cause it to separate.
7. Combine While Hot: Toss pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce together while everything is still hot for better blending of flavors.

With these tools and tips in hand, you’re ready to create a deliciously creamy and savory dish everyone will love.

---

Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

For the Chicken

• Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless) – 2 large, diced into bite-sized pieces
• Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
• Salt & Black Pepper – To taste
• Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon (for extra flavor)

For the Pasta

• Penne Pasta – 12 ounces (or any pasta of your choice)
• Broccoli Florets – 2 cups, fresh or frozen

For the Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce

• Butter – 3 tablespoons (for richness and smooth texture)
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced (adds aromatic depth)
• Heavy Cream – 1 ½ cups (for a rich, creamy base)
• Chicken Broth – ½ cup (adds savory depth to the sauce)
• Parmesan Cheese – 1 cup, freshly grated (for the best cheesy flavor)
• Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup, shredded (adds creaminess and a stretchy texture)
• Salt & Black Pepper – To taste
• Red Pepper Flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a hint of heat)

For Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh Parsley – Chopped, for freshness and color
• Extra Parmesan Cheese – Grated, for serving

This ingredient list ensures a creamy, garlicky, and cheesy pasta dish with juicy chicken pieces and vibrant broccoli. Freshly grated cheese is highly recommended for a smoother sauce.

---

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8–10 minutes).
3. During the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
4. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later use. Set aside.

---

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the diced chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Add chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

---

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine.
4. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3–4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, whisking continuously until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

---

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet with the cheese sauce.
2. Toss everything together until well-coated.
3. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

---

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

The creamy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness of this dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it also reheats well if you have leftovers.

---

Notes

• Use Fresh Cheese: Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
• Customize Your Veggies: Swap broccoli with spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even asparagus for variety.
• Adjust Spice Level: Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply use gluten-free pasta for a delicious gluten-free meal.
• Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter sauce.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure you cook pasta al dente to avoid a mushy texture when mixed with the hot sauce.
2. Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can turn bitter if burnt. Sauté it just until fragrant.
3. Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Ensure the sauce is warm but not boiling before adding cheese to avoid clumping or separation.
4. Skipping Pasta Water: Reserved pasta water helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency; don’t forget to save some before draining.
5. Crowding the Pan: When cooking chicken, avoid overcrowding to ensure even browning and proper cooking.
6. Not Tasting the Sauce: Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed before combining with pasta and chicken.
7. Using Cold Ingredients: Bring cheeses and cream to room temperature before cooking for a smoother, creamier sauce.

Avoiding these common pitfalls ensures your Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta turns out creamy, flavorful, and utterly delicious every time.

---

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

Pairing your rich and creamy Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are eight fantastic options:

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy cheese sauce.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add a lovely sweetness and extra nutrients.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a light, tangy side.
• Bruschetta: Toasted baguette topped with tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil for a burst of freshness.
• Sautéed Spinach: A simple, healthy side that complements the creamy pasta without overpowering it.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a double-dose of comfort, serve the pasta with smooth, buttery mashed potatoes.
• Grilled Asparagus: Slightly charred asparagus spears bring a pleasant crunch and earthy flavor to your meal.

These pairings enhance the overall dining experience, balancing out the richness of the pasta with fresh, crunchy, or tangy flavors.

---

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to revive the creamy consistency. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as creamy sauces tend to separate when frozen and reheated. However, if you do freeze, place portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 680 kcal
• Protein: 40 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Fat: 35 grams
• Saturated Fat: 18 grams
• Cholesterol: 145 mg
• Sodium: 920 mg
• Fiber: 4 grams
• Sugar: 4 grams

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portions used.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works well, you can use fettuccine, rotini, rigatoni, or any pasta you prefer. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

2. How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta, swap heavy cream for low-fat milk or Greek yogurt, and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore the creamy texture. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or even roasted chickpeas for a satisfying meat-free option.

5. Is it possible to make this pasta dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store separately and combine when reheating to avoid overcooking the pasta.

6. What cheese works best for this recipe?

Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella are ideal. For a sharper flavor, try adding aged cheddar or Gruyère.

7. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or even roasted tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

8. Why is my sauce too thick?

If your sauce turns out too thick, add reserved pasta water, chicken broth, or milk a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

---

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the kind of dish that checks all the boxes: creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and packed with protein and veggies. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet indulgent enough to serve for special occasions. With endless ways to customize, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to over and over again. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or reheating leftovers, this pasta delivers pure comfort every time.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: