Description
There’s something comforting about a creamy, garlic-infused pasta dish that brings everything together in just one pot. This one-pot chicken and broccoli pasta is a perfect mix of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant broccoli, all coated in a rich, velvety sauce. Not only is it quick and easy, but it also saves you from a sink full of dishes! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner, this dish delivers flavor, convenience, and creamy perfection in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 3 cups uncooked fusilli or penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
-
Sauté the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly golden, about 3–4 minutes.
-
Add Flavor:
- Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Simmer the Pasta:
- Pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring well.
- Add the uncooked pasta, ensuring it’s submerged.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Incorporate the Broccoli:
- Stir in the broccoli florets and cover the pot.
- Cook for another 4–5 minutes until the pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender yet crisp.
-
Finish & Serve:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess (if using).
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a richer sauce, stir in ¼ cup of cream cheese before adding the broccoli. This will make the dish extra creamy without overpowering the flavors.
- Prefer a bit of crunch? Toast some breadcrumbs in butter and sprinkle them over the pasta just before serving for added texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: cheesy chicken pasta, broccoli pasta bake, creamy pasta recipe, easy dinner ideas