Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving pure comfort in a bowl, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is my go-to for those hectic weeknights or whenever I want something hearty, fresh, and rich—all at the same time! Tender pasta, golden seared chicken, and vibrant broccoli are tossed in a luscious, lemony cream sauce that’s wonderfully simple yet feels oh-so-decadent. Get ready for a dish that delivers big smiles and second helpings every single time!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You truly don’t need a long list to create a showstopping bowl of Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta. These ingredients all play a crucial role, from the savory chicken and tender broccoli to the zingy lemon and velvety sauce. Let’s celebrate each one!

• Dried Rotini (or your favorite short pasta): Its twists capture all that luscious sauce, making every forkful irresistible.
• Broccoli Florets: Adding a pop of color and freshness, broccoli balances the indulgence with its gentle crunch and earthy flavor.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Cut into bite-size pieces for juicy, golden seared morsels throughout the dish.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Layered into every step to highlight each flavor, from pasta water to finishing touches.
• Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken perfectly and develops those tasty browned bits for an even deeper flavor.
• Minced Garlic: Fragrant and just the right amount to make your kitchen smell amazing as it infuses the cream sauce.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: The heart of that dreamy, silky sauce—don’t skimp, you want that luscious texture!
• Unsalted Chicken Stock or Broth: Adds savory backbone and helps thin out the sauce for the perfect coat.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts right in for nutty, salty, deeply satisfying flavor.
• Lemon Zest & Lemon Juice: A fresh, bright zing that lifts the whole dish and cuts through the creaminess beautifully.

Variations

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is how endlessly customizable it is! You can tailor it to your craving or dietary need—just a few small swaps, and the dish becomes uniquely yours.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta for an equally delicious, wheat-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce for a subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds.
• Veggie Swap: Sub in asparagus tips or baby spinach if you’re out of broccoli or want a change in color and flavor.
• Cheese Lovers: Stir in extra gruyère, fontina, or sharp provolone for deeper cheesiness.
• Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a slightly lighter sauce, or swap some of the cream for milk.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil, just like Italian nonnas do! Drop in your pasta and cook until it’s al dente. Two or three minutes before your pasta timer buzzes, toss in the broccoli so it blanches to a delicate bright green and turns perfectly tender. Don’t forget to set aside a cup of that starchy cooking water—it’s liquid gold for your sauce.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, cube your chicken breast and generously season it with kosher salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet until shimmering, then add the chicken in a single layer. Sear each side for absolutely golden, juicy bites—don’t stir too soon, let it develop that color! Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl—it’ll finish up in the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet (seriously, don’t rinse out those caramelized bits!), reduce the heat and add a splash more olive oil along with the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant, no more than 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken stock, salt, and pepper, scraping the pan as the sauce simmers and thickens—watch as it turns rich and velvety in just a few short minutes.

Step 4: Finish and Combine

Turn off the heat and stir in the parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This finishing touch is what makes Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta so bright and addictive. If the sauce seems a bit thick, swirl in a little reserved pasta water, a spoonful at a time, until it’s pourable and glossy. Add your drained pasta, broccoli, and chicken, tossing everything together to coat every bite in creamy goodness. Serve immediately and dig in!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Garnishes

For that extra pop (and a little bit of flair), sprinkle your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with freshly grated parmesan, crack some black pepper over the top, and toss on a scattering of chopped fresh parsley or basil. A bit of lemon zest right before serving adds a gourmet touch and even more aroma!

Side Dishes

This dish is plenty filling on its own, but if you love a classic Italian spread, serve it with a crisp side salad—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette—or a basket of warm, crusty bread to mop up any lingering sauce. Roasted asparagus or garlicky green beans are also a fantastic match.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, try dishing up the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in individual bowls, garnished with a lemon twist and an extra cheesy sprinkle. For an elegant twist, serve it family-style in a big, shallow platter, letting everyone help themselves—don’t forget the lemon wedges on the side!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cooled leftovers store beautifully—just transfer your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, but don’t worry, it springs back to life with a little reheating!

Freezing

Cream-based sauces can sometimes change in texture after freezing, but if you want to freeze it, let the pasta and sauce cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To revive Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, add a splash of milk or a bit of reserved broth and warm in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between. If reheating on the stove, use low heat and stir gently to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner, Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is bound to win you over. I can’t wait for you to dig in, savor that creamy sauce, and make it your new weeknight staple—your tastebuds and your family will thank you!

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