Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
This Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful one-pan dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich garlic cheese sauce, this comforting pasta meal is a family favorite. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's both delicious and nutritious!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta & Broccoli
- Boil pasta according to package instructions.
- Add broccoli in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
-
Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.
-
Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well.
-
Add the Cheese
- Gradually stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
-
Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli, stirring to coat everything in the sauce.
-
Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage for variety.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
