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Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

A creamy and comforting pasta dinner made with tender chicken, bright broccoli, and penne coated in a silky Parmesan sauce. It is hearty, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something cozy and satisfying.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 pound chicken tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Set a large deep skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the penne to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Drain both together and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  3. In the skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, season with the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, then cook for 5 to 6 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter and cook the chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring, then add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta and broccoli.
  7. Toss everything gently until fully coated in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Cook for 1 to 2 more minutes until hot and glossy.
  8. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.

Notes

  • Cook the pasta just to al dente so it finishes perfectly in the sauce.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest texture.
  • If the sauce thickens too much, loosen it with a little reserved pasta water or extra broth.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Hindu

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 610
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 49g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: chicken broccoli pasta, creamy chicken pasta, broccoli pasta dinner, easy pasta dinner, weeknight chicken pasta, parmesan chicken pasta