Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a creamy, comforting dinner packed with tender chicken, bright broccoli, and a zesty lemon butter sauce. It feels cozy yet fresh, and it comes together in about 35 minutes for a satisfying family meal.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
Chicken Pasta with Broccoli brings together juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and crisp broccoli in one creamy skillet. It tastes rich and buttery, yet the lemon keeps every bite light and fresh.
Moreover, this recipe fits busy weeknights because you prep it in about 15 minutes and cook it in around 20. As a result, dinner hits the table fast without sacrificing flavor.
Quick 35-Minute Weeknight Dinner
First, you boil the pasta and broccoli together, which saves time and dishes. Meanwhile, you sauté the seasoned chicken until golden and tender. Then you toss everything in a silky lemon butter sauce.
Because it all cooks quickly, you can make Chicken Pasta with Broccoli even on your busiest nights.
Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce with Cajun Flavor
The sauce blends butter, garlic, Dijon, lemon juice, and zest. In addition, Cajun seasoning adds a gentle kick that wakes up the whole dish.
As a result, Chicken Pasta with Broccoli tastes creamy, slightly spicy, and bright all at once.
Family-Friendly and Easy to Customize
Kids love the bowtie pasta and cheesy finish. However, you can easily adjust the spice level by adding less Cajun seasoning.
You can also swap vegetables or add more cheese if your family prefers it extra creamy.
Perfect for Leftovers and Meal Prep
Chicken Pasta with Broccoli stores well for up to two days in the fridge. Therefore, you can pack it for lunch or reheat it for a quick dinner the next day.
It reheats beautifully with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Pasta with Broccoli uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Each one adds flavor, texture, or creaminess to the final dish.
For the Chicken and Seasoning
You need 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite sized pieces. Then season with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, plus salt and black pepper.
Next, you cook the chicken in 2 tablespoons olive oil until browned and fully cooked.
For the Pasta and Broccoli
Use 12 ounces bowtie pasta for a fun, hearty base. Then add 2 cups broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of boiling.
Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. This step matters because it helps bind the sauce later.
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
You need 6 tablespoons unsalted butter and 4 cloves minced garlic. Then stir in ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes if you like heat.
Add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, and 1 tablespoon chopped chives. Finally, fold in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Optional Add-Ins and Garnishes
Top Chicken Pasta with Broccoli with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs. You can also squeeze more lemon juice over each serving.
If you prefer a richer sauce, add a bit more butter or cheese.
How to Make Chicken Pasta with Broccoli Step by Step
This Chicken Pasta with Broccoli cooks in layers. First pasta, then chicken, then sauce, and finally everything comes together.
Cook the Bowtie Pasta and Broccoli Together
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Then add the bowtie pasta and cook until just tender.
During the final 3 minutes, drop in the broccoli florets. Next, scoop out ½ cup pasta water and drain the rest.
Season and Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Then heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove it to a plate.
Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Then melt the butter in the same skillet and add minced garlic.
Cook briefly until fragrant. Next, stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and chives.
Toss Everything Together Until Creamy
Return the chicken to the skillet. Then add the cooked pasta and broccoli.
Slowly pour in reserved pasta water, a little at a time, while tossing. As a result, the sauce turns silky and coats every piece.
Finish with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs
Finally, fold in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon if needed.
Serve Chicken Pasta with Broccoli immediately with extra cheese and herbs on top.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pasta
Small details make Chicken Pasta with Broccoli even better. Therefore, keep these simple tips in mind.
Reserve Pasta Water for a Silky Sauce
Always save some pasta water before draining. Because it contains starch, it helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
Add it slowly so the sauce stays creamy, not watery.
Adjust Cajun Seasoning to Control Spice
If you prefer mild flavors, reduce the Cajun seasoning slightly. However, if you love bold heat, add a pinch more.
This way, Chicken Pasta with Broccoli fits your taste perfectly.
Toss Quickly to Prevent Sticking
Once you combine everything, toss gently but quickly. As a result, the pasta absorbs the sauce evenly.
If it thickens too much, add a splash of warm water.
Boost Flavor with Extra Lemon and Parmesan
A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the whole dish. Meanwhile, extra Parmesan adds richness and saltiness.
Together, they make Chicken Pasta with Broccoli taste fresh and comforting.
Easy Variations and Substitutions
Chicken Pasta with Broccoli adapts easily to different diets and preferences.
Make It Vegetarian with Chickpeas or Tofu
Swap chicken for chickpeas or cubed tofu. Season them well and sauté until golden.
Then follow the same sauce steps for a satisfying vegetarian version.
Swap Broccoli for Other Vegetables
You can use asparagus, spinach, or peas instead. In fact, roasted zucchini works beautifully too.
Just adjust cooking time so vegetables stay tender but not mushy.
Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta
Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber. Meanwhile, gluten free pasta works well for dietary needs.
Cook according to package directions for best texture.
Add Heavy Cream for Extra Richness
If you want a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream. As a result, the sauce turns even more velvety.
However, the lemon butter base already gives plenty of creaminess.
Try Different Herbs and Flavor Twists
Swap parsley and chives for basil or thyme. You can also add sun dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
Because Chicken Pasta with Broccoli pairs well with many herbs, you can get creative.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
Chicken Pasta with Broccoli stands strong on its own. Still, you can round out the meal with simple sides.
Pair with a Fresh Green Salad
Serve with a crisp green salad and light vinaigrette. The fresh greens balance the creamy pasta.
Serve with Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread
Warm garlic bread soaks up every drop of sauce. Therefore, it makes dinner feel extra special.
Add a Light Soup Starter for a Complete Meal
Start with a small bowl of soup like a vegetable broth. Then serve the pasta as the main course.
This recipe serves 4 people at approximately 600 calories per serving, making it a hearty and satisfying dinner option.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Chicken Pasta with Broccoli stores well, so you can enjoy it again later.
How to Store Leftovers Properly
Place leftovers in an airtight container. Then refrigerate for up to two days.
Keep it tightly sealed so it stays fresh.
How to Reheat Without Drying Out the Sauce
Add a splash of water before reheating. Then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Stir often so the sauce stays creamy.
Can You Freeze Chicken Pasta with Broccoli?
You can freeze it, but the texture may change slightly. Because pasta softens after freezing, it tastes best fresh or refrigerated.
If you freeze it, thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can cook Chicken Pasta with Broccoli earlier in the day. Then store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
However, for best texture, slightly undercook the pasta if making ahead.
How Do I Keep the Sauce Creamy?
Always reserve pasta water. Then add it gradually while tossing.
Also, do not overheat when reheating, since high heat can dry the sauce.
What Can I Use Instead of Cajun Seasoning?
You can use Italian seasoning or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of chili flakes.
Adjust to taste so the flavors stay balanced.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken. Simply warm it in the sauce before adding pasta and broccoli.
As a result, dinner comes together even faster.
How Long Does It Last in the Refrigerator?
Chicken Pasta with Broccoli lasts up to two days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container.
Reheat gently with a little water for best results.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- The BEST Chicken Alfredo Slow Cooker Recipe
- Slow Cooker Crack Potato Soup
- Tomato and Garlic Pasta
- Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta Recipe
- Warming Italian Broccoli Soup
Conclusion
Why This Chicken Pasta with Broccoli Belongs in Your Weekly Rotation
Chicken Pasta with Broccoli brings comfort, freshness, and bold flavor to your dinner table. Because it cooks quickly and uses simple ingredients, it fits busy schedules with ease.
Moreover, you can adjust the spice, swap vegetables, or make it richer depending on your mood. Once you try it, this creamy, lemony pasta will become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
For more easy family dinners, follow along on Pinterest at pinterest.
Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
Equipment
- Large pot For boiling pasta and broccoli
- Large skillet For cooking chicken and sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite sized pieces
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until just tender. During the last 3 minutes, add broccoli florets. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Cook chicken for 6 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove to a plate.
- Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, then stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and chives.
- Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and broccoli. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water while tossing to create a silky sauce. Fold in Parmesan cheese until creamy. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and herbs.
