Personalized Introduction

You know those cozy pasta dishes that make you feel instantly comforted after the very first bite? That’s exactly what this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Pasta 🧄🍗 is all about. I still remember the first time I made it—I was craving something warm, creamy, and satisfying, but I also wanted a balanced meal with some veggies. I threw everything together in one pot, crossed my fingers… and ended up with a pasta dish so good, I couldn’t stop “taste-testing” it before serving. (Yes, I know you know that feeling!)

This pasta is rich without being heavy, garlicky without being overpowering, and full of tender chicken and bright, perfectly cooked broccoli. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl. And the best part? It’s super simple. You don’t need fancy ingredients—just pantry staples, a bit of cream, and plenty of Parmesan.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, your partner, or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is going to become one of your weeknight favorites. It’s creamy, flavorful, comforting, and honestly… kind of irresistible.

Nutritional Benefits

Even though this dish tastes indulgent, it actually offers a balanced mix of nutrients. The chicken provides lean protein—perfect for staying full and energized. The broccoli is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber to support digestion and overall health.

The garlic brings antioxidants, and the Parmesan adds calcium and rich flavor. You can also adjust the creaminess to match your nutritional goals—use heavy cream for richness, or go lighter with half-and-half or even evaporated milk. It’s a feel-good meal that doesn’t leave you weighed down.

Adaptable Variations

• Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mix of milk + a little cream cheese.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, peas, or roasted bell peppers.
• Spicy Creamy Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of chili oil.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check your broth labels.
• Extra Cheesy: Add shredded mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta to make the sauce even creamier.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (penne, linguine, or fettuccine work great)
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken.
   Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil or butter. Cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Make the sauce.
   In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
4. Add the Parmesan.
   Reduce the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens—about 3 minutes. If it gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth.
5. Combine everything.
   Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve.
   Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a little black pepper or red pepper flakes if you like heat. Serve warm and enjoy!

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Use fresh Parmesan. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can make the sauce grainy.
• Reserve pasta water. It helps thin the sauce without losing creaminess.
• Don’t boil the cream. Keep it at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling.
• Meal prep-friendly: This pasta reheats well—just add a splash of milk or broth when warming it up.
• Add protein variety: Swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even leftover rotisserie chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this without cream?
   Yes! Use evaporated milk or a mix of milk + cream cheese for a lighter but still creamy sauce.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   Absolutely. Add it directly into the boiling pasta water during the last 2–3 minutes.
3. How do I make the sauce thicker?
   Let it simmer a little longer, or add a bit more Parmesan cheese.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of liquid.

Call to Action

If you try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Pasta, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you make it extra cheesy? Add spinach? Spice it up? Save this recipe on Pinterest so you can find it again easily—and if you post a picture, tag me so I can see your delicious, creamy pasta bowl! 🍝✨