Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
Indulge in a comforting, restaurant-quality meal right at home with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts seasoned to perfection, al dente pasta, and vibrant broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you’re craving something hearty yet wholesome. The balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the freshness of broccoli makes this dish a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Let’s dive into how to create this delectable meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced horizontally to create 4 thinner cutlets)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Pasta and Creamy Sauce:
- 8 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water for a milder flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, or lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Slice each breast horizontally to create thinner cutlets, which cook faster and stay tender. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub the olive oil over both sides of the chicken cutlets, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over them, pressing gently to adhere. Set the chicken aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the other components. - Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to blanch them. This ensures the broccoli is tender yet retains its vibrant green color and slight crunch. Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use if needed. - Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet (preferably 12 inches or larger) over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the pan. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken cutlets in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces. - Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden (be careful not to burn the garlic). Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and velvety texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Fold in the sliced chicken, ensuring it’s warmed through and coated in the creamy sauce. Let the dish simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors. - Serve and Garnish:
Divide the creamy pasta among plates or serve it family-style in a large bowl. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. For a bright, zesty finish, consider adding a pinch of lemon zest. Serve immediately with crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad on the side for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Make It Your Own: Swap the broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or peas based on your preference or what’s in season. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
- Cheese Matters: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, which may contain anti-caking agents that affect the sauce’s smoothness.
- Lighten It Up: If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
- Protein Variations: Not a fan of chicken? Try shrimp, Italian sausage, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. The creamy sauce is decadent yet balanced by the freshness of broccoli, while the seasoned chicken adds protein to keep you satisfied. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, meaning fewer dishes to wash! Whether you’re cooking for a family, a date night, or just treating yourself, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and heartwarming goodness.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
