Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Broccoli – Epic Weeknight Comfort

A warm bowl of Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta with Broccoli that transforms dinner into a comforting delight in just 30 minutes.

Prep Time: 10minutes mins

Cook Time: 20minutes mins

Total Time: 30minutes mins

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: DINNER

Cuisine: American

Calories: 540

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces pasta Choose penne or fusilli
• 2 cups broccoli Fresh or frozen

For the Chicken

• 1 pound chicken breast Cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves garlic Freshly minced

For the Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream For rich and creamy texture
• 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or mozzarella
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese For additional flavor

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Method 

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, add the chicken pieces seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
3. Add Garlic and Broccoli: Add the minced garlic and broccoli to the skillet, sauté for 3-4 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the broccoli is tender but vibrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat, pour in the heavy cream, stir, then gradually add the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
5. Combine Everything: Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring every noodle is coated in the sauce. Heat for a minute to meld flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Plate topped with sprinkled Parmesan cheese. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowl
Calories: 540kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 800mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Vitamin A: 500IU
Vitamin C: 60mg
Calcium: 300mg
Iron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat adding milk or cream for creaminess.