Creamy One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Benefits and Advantages of Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta offers a perfect blend of convenience, nutrition, and flavor. This dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or quick lunches. The use of tender chicken and nutritious broccoli provides a good balance of protein and vitamins, supporting a healthy diet. Additionally, the creamy sauce adds richness without overwhelming the palate, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.

Unlike other pasta dishes, this recipe uniquely combines wholesome ingredients with simple steps, ensuring both taste and health benefits are met. Its versatility makes it a standout choice, as it can be adapted easily for various dietary requirements while maintaining its delicious creaminess.

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

To prepare this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (about 450 grams), cut into ¾-inch pieces
• Lemon pepper seasoning (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup dry white wine (120 ml) or substitute chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ¾ cup chicken broth (180 ml)
• 1 ¼ cups half and half (300 ml)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for subtle flavor)
• 2 ½ cups broccoli florets (about 150 grams)
• ½ pound (225 grams) penne pasta
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 75 grams)
• ¼ cup grated Asiago cheese (about 25 grams; can be substituted entirely with Parmesan)
• 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For gluten-free options, use pasta without gluten. Vegan alternatives for chicken include marinated tofu or chickpeas, with nutritional yeast replacing Parmesan cheese. Low-calorie swaps include using low-fat milk or cashew cream in place of half and half.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta recipe is highly adaptable to suit various dietary needs:

• Vegan and Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. Use vegan cream and cheese alternatives such as cashew cream and nutritional yeast.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing texture.
• Lower-Calorie Option: Substitute heavy cream or half and half with low-fat milk or plant-based milks like almond or oat milk. Reduce cheese amounts or opt for vegan cheese substitutes.
• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate cauliflower or zucchini florets to diversify flavors and nutrient content while maintaining the creamy texture.

Each of these substitutions preserves the essence of the creamy sauce and the overall comforting nature of the dish, allowing for broader dietary inclusivity without compromising flavor.

How to Prepare the Perfect Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather all ingredients including chicken breast, broccoli, pasta, cream, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Choose any dietary substitutions if required.
2. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with lemon pepper and sear them until golden and fully cooked, approximately 2-3 minutes on each side. Set chicken aside.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and reduce by half over medium heat.
6. Add butter and sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
7. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and half and half to form a smooth, creamy sauce. Stir in hot sauce (optional), Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and red pepper flakes.
8. Bring sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
9. Off the heat, stir in Parmesan and Asiago cheeses carefully to avoid graininess. Add lemon juice gradually while stirring.
10. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
11. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli, and seared chicken in the skillet with the sauce, stirring well to coat.
12. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
13. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley.

Following these steps carefully will yield a creamy chicken and broccoli pasta that is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced for any occasion.

For more creamy pasta recipes, consider trying the Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a delightful dish with rich flavors and simple prep.

Advanced Tips and Variations

Improve your creamy chicken and broccoli pasta with these helpful tips and exciting variations to match your taste and dietary needs.

Flavor Enhancements

• Marinate Chicken: Soak the chicken pieces in garlic, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking to deepen flavor.
• Try Different Pasta Shapes: Use rigatoni, penne, or fusilli as they hold the creamy sauce well.
• Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes or Roasted Peppers: These add sweet and smoky notes to the sauce.

Texture and Creaminess Boosters

• Blend Cooked Cauliflower: Stir into the sauce to increase creaminess with fewer calories.
• Use Nutritional Yeast and Cashew Cream: Perfect for vegan versions, these mimic cheese flavor and richness.

Spice and Seasoning Options

• Add smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle warming kick.
• Fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, provide fresh brightness when sprinkled on before serving.

These simple adjustments keep the dish versatile and delicious, allowing you to customize it for any occasion or dietary preference.

For another creamy poultry pasta, check out our Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners.

How to Store Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta: Best Practices

Preserve the flavor and texture of your leftovers with proper storage and reheating techniques.

Refrigeration

Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in sealed freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s smooth texture.
• Avoid high heat as it can cause the sauce to separate or become grainy.

Proper storage and reheating techniques ensure your creamy chicken and broccoli pasta tastes fresh and comforting, even days later.

Nutritional Value of Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta offers a balanced meal with high protein, ample vitamins from broccoli, and energy-providing carbohydrates from pasta. The fats mainly come from cheese, cream, and olive oil, contributing to the rich texture and flavor. Adjust ingredients for lower calorie or fat content if needed, such as using low-fat dairy alternatives or more vegetables.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Creamy One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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• Author: Isabella Hayes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Contains dairy and meat

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Description

🍗 Enjoy a creamy, comforting meal with tender chicken and nutritious broccoli in every bite.
🍝 This one-pot pasta dish is flavorful and perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (about 450 grams), cut into ¾-inch pieces
Lemon pepper seasoning (to taste)
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup dry white wine (120 ml) or substitute chicken broth
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons flour
¾ cup chicken broth (180 ml)
1 ¼ cups half and half (300 ml)
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
2 ½ cups broccoli florets (about 150 grams)
½ pound (225 grams) penne pasta
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 75 grams)
¼ cup grated Asiago cheese (about 25 grams)
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon mustard powder
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Season chicken pieces with lemon pepper seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Boil salted water for pasta. Cook penne pasta until al dente, adding broccoli florets during the last 3-4 minutes. Drain and reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water.
4. In the same skillet, add white wine and reduce by half over medium heat.
5. Stir in butter and garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Sprinkle flour over mixture and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
7. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and half and half to create a smooth sauce.
8. Add hot sauce, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and red pepper flakes.
9. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
10. Off the heat, stir in Parmesan and Asiago cheese slowly to avoid grainy texture.
11. Add lemon juice gradually while stirring.
12. Adjust sauce consistency by adding reserved pasta water, if needed.
13. Stir cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken into the sauce.
14. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Notes

🧀 Grate cheese fresh from wedges for best flavor and melt.
🍷 Use dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or substitute chicken broth for depth.
🍋 Add lemon juice off the heat slowly to prevent curdling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Sautéing and Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 647 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 33 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Carbohydrates: 57 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 87 mg

Keywords: Creamy Chicken Pasta,Broccoli Pasta,One-Pot Meal,Comfort Food