Chicken Pasta Broccoli: 25 Minutes to Pure Delight

Name: Chicken Pasta Broccoli: 25 Minutes to Pure Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups pasta; 1 cup cooked chicken, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 27, 2025

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Let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about this chicken pasta broccoli dish! It’s simple, quick, and absolutely delicious – the perfect weeknight meal that never disappoints. Imagine tender pasta tossed with juicy diced chicken and vibrant broccoli florets, all brought together in a light, garlicky olive oil sauce. It’s a fantastic way to get your protein and veggies in one delightful bowl! Plus, you can whip it up in about 25 minutes, making it a lifesaver for those busy evenings when you still want a home-cooked meal. Trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again!

chicken pasta broccoli - detail 1

Ingredients List

To create this scrumptious chicken pasta broccoli dish, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch in flavor! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups pasta: Any pasta shape you love will work, but I recommend penne or rotini for their ability to hold onto the sauce.
1 cup cooked chicken, diced: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand for convenience.
2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh is best, but frozen works too! Just make sure to thaw it first.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This will add a lovely richness and help sauté the garlic.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic flavor that will make your kitchen smell divine!
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Go for the real deal here for that authentic taste!
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy – season it just right to bring all those flavors together!

With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

How to Prepare Chicken Pasta Broccoli

Ready to whip up this delicious chicken pasta broccoli? Let’s dive into the steps that will have your kitchen smelling amazing in no time! Follow along, and I promise you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in just about 25 minutes.

Cooking the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 2 cups of pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente perfection. You want it tender but with a slight bite, so keep an eye on it. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t rinse it! That starchy coating helps the sauce cling better.

Sautéing the Garlic and Broccoli

Now, let’s move to the skillet! In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When it’s shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Wow, that smell is heavenly! Next, throw in those 2 cups of broccoli florets. Cook them for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn bright green and are tender yet still crisp. You want them vibrant and full of life!

Combining Ingredients

With the broccoli ready, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, making sure to mix well so that the flavors meld beautifully. This is where the magic happens! If you want to add a splash of pasta water to help bring everything together, feel free – it’s a great way to enhance the sauce.

Final Touches

Almost there! Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir it all together for another 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to blend. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, and watch everyone enjoy this delightful dish that’s as satisfying as it is colorful!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this chicken pasta broccoli! Each serving, which is about 1 cup, typically comes in around 350 calories. You’ll find it contains about 10 grams of fat, with only 2 grams of saturated fat, making it a light yet satisfying option. Plus, you’re getting a hearty boost of protein at 25 grams per serving, thanks to the chicken! It’s also a solid source of carbohydrates, with 45 grams, and 3 grams of fiber to help keep you feeling full. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, and actual nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy this dish guilt-free knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This chicken pasta broccoli dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and aromatic garlic creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious!
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add spices to make it uniquely yours.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this colorful and flavorful dish, making it a hit at the dinner table!

Tips for Success

To make sure your chicken pasta broccoli turns out absolutely delicious, here are some pro tips I swear by! First, always use high-quality ingredients – fresh broccoli and real Parmesan cheese make a world of difference in flavor. When cooking the pasta, don’t skimp on the salt in the water; it’s your chance to season the pasta itself! Also, keep an eye on the broccoli while sautéing; you want it tender but still vibrant and crunchy. Lastly, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and don’t forget that little splash of pasta water if you need a bit more moisture. Happy cooking!

Variations

Now, let’s get creative with this chicken pasta broccoli dish! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to mix things up. You can add vibrant bell peppers or sweet cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some spinach or kale right at the end for a nutritious boost. Want to spice things up? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick. And don’t forget about herbs! Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the dish even further. The sky’s the limit!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you’ve got leftovers of this delicious chicken pasta broccoli, you’ll want to store them properly to keep that wonderful flavor intact! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out while warming it up. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also pop it in the microwave, covered, for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Enjoy every last bite!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your chicken pasta broccoli experience, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the dish perfectly! If you’re in the mood for something heartier, a side of garlic bread is always a hit. The buttery, toasted slices are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Another delightful option is to serve it with a glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, which beautifully enhances the flavors. And don’t forget a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top for that finishing touch – it’s all about those little details!