Dinner

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Name: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ¼ cup butter; 3 teaspoons garlic, minced; 1 cup whole milk; 2 cups heavy cream; 3 cups cheddar cheese, grated; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups farfalle pasta

Byluca Carter July 6, 2026July 6, 2026

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Introduction

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a comforting and satisfying dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and fresh broccoli, it’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

A close-up of a black skillet filled with a creamy pasta dish featuring three main layers: bowtie pasta in pale yellow with a smooth, creamy sauce coating every piece; vibrant green broccoli florets scattered evenly throughout the pasta; and tender light brown chicken chunks interspersed among the pasta and broccoli, all stirred gently with a wooden spoon resting on the right side. In the background, a couple of slices of toasted bread are visible on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

¼ cup butter
3 teaspoons garlic (minced)
1 cup whole milk

2 cups heavy cream
3 cups cheddar cheese (grated)
2 cups broccoli florets

2 cups farfalle pasta

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Toss well to coat evenly.
Step 2: Parboil the broccoli florets for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the farfalle pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter in the skillet and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to warm and start bubbling gently, stirring continuously.

Step 6: Gradually add the grated cheddar cheese to the skillet, whisking slowly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 7: Add the cooked chicken, parboiled broccoli, and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat evenly in the cheesy sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor or mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Swap farfalle for penne or rotini pasta if preferred.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Steaming broccoli instead of parboiling helps retain more nutrients and color.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A black cast iron skillet holds creamy pasta made with three layers: the first layer is light yellow bow-tie pasta with a smooth, oily texture; the second layer has chunks of light brown cooked chicken mixed through; the third layer features bright green broccoli florets scattered evenly. The creamy sauce covers all elements with a glistening off-white color and a slightly thick texture. A wooden spoon rests on the right side, slightly embedded in the pasta, showing some sauce on its surface. In the top left corner of the image, slices of garlic bread with a golden crust are partially visible, resting on a white marbled surface. The entire scene sits on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and drain excess water before adding to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?

You can substitute the milk, cream, and cheese with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut cream, and vegan cheese, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.