Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate in convenience and comfort. With only one pan required, cleanup is a breeze — and you still get a satisfying, complete meal. The creamy sauce coats every bite of pasta, the chicken adds hearty protein, and the broccoli brings a fresh, nutritious crunch. It’s a family-friendly favorite that’s ready in under 30 minutes and is as nourishing as it is comforting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
olive oil or butter
salt and pepper
garlic cloves
onion (optional)
chicken broth
milk or heavy cream
uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning (optional)
crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice or shred.
In the same pan, add garlic (and onion, if using) and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and milk, then stir in the uncooked pasta.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of cooking. If using frozen broccoli, add a minute or two earlier.
Once the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, return the chicken to the skillet.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, mixing until creamy and well combined.
Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 25–30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal one-pan meal for busy evenings.

Variations

Cheesy Boost: Add shredded mozzarella or cream cheese for a richer texture.
Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk or skip the cheese for a leaner option.
Veggie Add-ins: Try mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas alongside the broccoli.
Pasta Alternatives: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or even chickpea pasta.
Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth and warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. It can also be microwaved in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just add it slightly earlier than fresh to ensure it cooks through.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Definitely. Stir it in during the last few minutes to heat through without drying out.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells cook evenly and soak up the sauce well.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or water with bouillon works as a substitute.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat with added liquid to revive the sauce.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally while cooking and make sure there’s enough liquid in the pan.

Can I add lemon for extra flavor?

Yes, a splash of lemon juice or zest adds brightness and pairs well with the broccoli.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or stir in more cheese or a touch of cream cheese.

What sides go well with this meal?

A side salad or garlic bread complements the dish nicely.

Conclusion

One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a fast, easy, and nourishing meal that delivers on flavor and convenience. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant broccoli all in a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s a complete dinner that satisfies without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Ideal for busy nights and picky eaters alike, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your weekly dinner rotation.

One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

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One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick and comforting meal made with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and pasta simmered in a creamy, flavorful sauce—all cooked in one skillet for easy prep and cleanup.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pan
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Salt

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice or shred.
In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion (if using) for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and milk, then add uncooked pasta. Stir to combine.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Add earlier if using frozen broccoli.
When pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, return chicken to the skillet.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Adjust with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve hot.

Notes

Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time.
Add extra veggies like mushrooms or peas for variety.
Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.
Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.
Reheat with a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
Calories: 460
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 390mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 85mg