Save this recipe
Tender chicken and crisp broccoli come together in a creamy garlic-parmesan sauce that hugs every piece of pasta perfectly. This one-pot wonder transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that satisfies both comfort food cravings and nutritional needs. Each forkful delivers the perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and pasta in a silky sauce.
The inspiration for this dish came during busy weeknight experiments, trying to create something both nutritious and satisfying. Now it's become our go-to for those evenings when we want something special without much fuss.
Essential Ingredients Selection
- Pasta: Should be short shapes that catch sauce. Bronze-cut works best
- Broccoli: Needs to be cut uniformly for even cooking
- Parmesan: Must be freshly grated for proper melting
- Chicken: Should be bite-sized for perfect distribution
- Garlic: Needs to be fresh for best flavor
Save this recipe
Creating Pasta Magic
- Sauce Development:
- Watch your roux transform into silky smoothness as you gradually add milk, creating the perfect base for parmesan.
- Vegetable Symphony:
- Cook your broccoli until bright green and crisp-tender, maintaining both color and texture.
- Final Assembly:
- Unite your components with care, letting the hot pasta absorb the flavors of your sauce.
Perfect Pairings
Transform this creamy dish into a complete meal by serving alongside garlic bread brushed with herb butter. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. For casual dinners, I love offering extra grated parmesan and red pepper flakes for customization.
Creative Pasta Adventures
Adapt this versatile dish to match your cravings or what's in your fridge. Add sun-dried tomatoes for bursts of intense flavor. During summer, I love incorporating fresh cherry tomatoes and basil. For extra depth, try adding sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach. Sometimes I swap the chicken for Italian sausage or shrimp for variety.
Save this recipe
Keeping It Fresh
Store any leftovers in airtight containers, though this dish is best enjoyed fresh. While it stays good for three days, the flavors are best within 48 hours. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the sauce's silky texture. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy.
Throughout my years of cooking, I've learned that great pasta dishes rely on proper technique and timing. This recipe proves that with basic ingredients, you can create something extraordinary. The way the sauce clings to each piece while the vegetables maintain their crispness makes this dish truly special.
Creating satisfying pasta meals isn't just about following measurements - it's about understanding how flavors work together. This chicken and broccoli pasta exemplifies that perfect balance. Whether feeding a busy family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers both nutrition and satisfaction. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli creates a meal that everyone loves.
Recipe Tips & Questions
- → Can I use milk alternatives?
- Yes, unsweetened almond or oat milk work, but sauce won't be as creamy. Add extra cheese to thicken.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Keep in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days. Reheat with splash of milk to prevent drying.
- → Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, thaw first and add to pasta in last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
- Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli works well to hold the sauce.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Best served fresh. Sauce may separate when reheated. Not suitable for freezing.