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Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 750

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, heat the 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sear for about 4 minutes, turning once, until golden and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium and add the 2 tbsp butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the broccoli florets and a pinch of salt, plus 2 tablespoons of water. Cover and steam for about 3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Uncover and cook off any excess water.
  3. Push the broccoli to the edges. Add the minced garlic to the center and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the 1/2 cup chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Stir in the 3/4 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water. Add the pasta, chicken with its juices, and the 1 cup Parmesan to the skillet. Toss over low heat for about 1 minute, until the cheese melts and everything is coated. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
  5. Divide among bowls, top with extra Parmesan and black pepper, and serve immediately.

Notes

This pasta is best right after making, but leftovers keep well for a few days in the fridge. If the sauce thickens after sitting, add a splash of milk when reheating. The pasta water trick is especially handy here for a silky sauce that clings to every noodle.