Creamy Garlic Chicken And Broccoli Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken And Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (your choice); 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta because it's comfort food at its finest! The creamy sauce blends perfectly with tender chicken and crisp broccoli, creating a dish that feels both cozy and satisfying. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests with minimal effort. Plus, the garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor that makes every bite delightful. I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-24T04:25:37.210Z

In my quest for the perfect weeknight dinner, I discovered this creamy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta recipe that steals the show every time. The secret is in the garlic; by sautéing it gently, I make sure it releases its fragrant oils without burning. The result? A rich and flavorful sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

I find that adding the broccoli at just the right time allows it to maintain a slight crunch, which complements the creamy texture of the sauce perfectly. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and you'll have a dish that everyone will rave about!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats each piece of pasta
Bursting with flavor from fresh garlic and tender chicken
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli

When beginning your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, getting the pasta right is crucial. You want to cook the pasta until it’s just al dente, which usually means checking a minute or two before the package's suggested cooking time. This ensures the pasta will retain its shape and texture once mixed with the creamy sauce. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly after draining, so don’t let it become too soft.

Adding the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking not only saves time but also ensures they remain vibrant and crisp. This cooking technique not only enhances their color but also helps them absorb some flavor from the pasta water, making them a perfect complement to the creamy sauce.

Perfecting the Garlic Sauce

The garlic sautéing phase is crucial for building the base flavor of your sauce. When adding minced garlic, be cautious with the heat: medium is typically ideal. Sautéing for just a minute will release its aroma without burning, which can lead to a bitter flavor. You want the garlic to become fragrant and just beginning to color—this is when it’s ready for the next steps.

When combining the chicken broth and heavy cream, be sure to stir the mixture well as it heats. You’ll know the sauce is in the right state when it begins to simmer gently and slightly thickens. If it’s not thickening as expected, you can reduce the heat and let it simmer longer without the lid or add a cornstarch slurry for a quicker thickening solution.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (your choice)
2 cups broccoli florets
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Having everything prepped will make the cooking process quick and enjoyable.

Instructions

Prepare your cooking space by having all your tools handy.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring to a simmer, and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and everything is well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken and broccoli pasta!

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers, or swap out broccoli with your favorite veggies like spinach or asparagus.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to make this dish lighter, consider substituting half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for the heavy cream. While it won't be as indulgent, it will maintain a creamy texture. Similarly, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option that doesn’t dry out as easily during cooking.

To enhance the dish further, experiment with adding vegetables that pair well with broccoli. Spinach or peas can be a delightful addition, contributing both color and nutrition. Additionally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while the garlic is sautéing can introduce a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so if it seems dry upon reheating, adding a splash of chicken broth can help revive the creaminess. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even heating without burning.

For meal prep, feel free to cook the chicken and sauce in advance. Store each component separately and combine them just before serving. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming overly soggy. You can also freeze individual portions for up to three months, though texture may slightly change upon reheating. It’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just combine with pasta and broccoli when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer a lighter option.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Just add the frozen broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking with the pasta.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.