Save This Garlic Parmesan Broccoli & Chicken Pasta is a comforting skillet meal that brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and al dente noodles in a rich, creamy sauce. Inspired by the savory depths of garlic Parmesan soup, this no-bake dish is designed for efficiency and flavor, making it a perfect solution for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Pin it By cooking the pasta directly in a mixture of chicken broth and cream, every noodle is infused with garlic and savory notes. This technique not only simplifies the process but also creates a thick, velvety coating that binds the chicken and broccoli together beautifully.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), cut into bite-size pieces
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne, rigatoni, or rotini pasta
- Vegetables: 2 cups (200 g) small broccoli florets, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- Dairy & Cream: 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- Broth & Seasonings: 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium chicken broth, 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste), 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 tsp dried Italian herb blend (optional)
- Garnish: Fresh parsley (chopped), additional grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Step 2
- In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Step 3
- Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 4
- Add the pasta and broccoli. Stir well, cover, and cook over medium-low heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. If needed, add a splash more broth or water.
- Step 5
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 6
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper as desired.
- Step 7
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a large, deep skillet with a tight-fitting lid is essential for cooking the pasta evenly in the sauce. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan as the liquid absorbs.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily adapt this dish by substituting rotisserie chicken for a faster version or using whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta. For a vegetarian variation, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this pasta hot, topped with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For a bright finish, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to enhance the rich garlic and cream flavors.
Pin it This Garlic Parmesan Broccoli & Chicken Pasta is a reliable and delicious choice for anyone seeking a comforting, high-protein meal with minimal cleanup. Enjoy this creamy American-Italian classic straight from the skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully. Skip the initial chicken sauté step and add it back in step 5 when you return the cooked chicken to the skillet. This shortcut reduces prep time significantly.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Penne, rigatoni, or rotini are ideal because their ridges and shapes hold the creamy sauce well. Short pasta with texture helps the garlic Parmesan coating cling to every bite. Whole-wheat or gluten-free varieties work too.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the chicken entirely and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. Consider adding white beans or extra broccoli to maintain protein and substance. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce remains just as delicious.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's creamy consistency. The pasta may absorb more liquid as it sits.
- → Why cook pasta directly in the sauce?
Cooking pasta in the simmering liquid allows the noodles to absorb flavor directly and releases starch into the sauce, creating a naturally thick and creamy coating. This technique yields a more cohesive dish with richer taste than boiling pasta separately.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly. Spinach, peas, chopped zucchini, or bell peppers work well. Add heartier vegetables like zucchini with the onion in step 2, and delicate greens like spinach in the last 2 minutes of cooking so they wilt but don't overcook.