Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Treat yourself to the comforting flavors of Chicken Broccoli Pasta. An Italian-inspired dish that combines tender broccoli, al dente spaghetti, and succulent chicken chunks in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce with just a hint of crushed red pepper. Sprinkle on some fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese for the finishing touch, and dinner is served.

This easy, 30 minute recipe brings together vibrant colors and flavors for a satisfying meal that’s suitable for any occasion. Whether it’s a laid-back weeknight dinner, a date night, or a dinner party with friends, this dish will not disappoint. 

Ingredients You Need to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta

• Broccoli: Look for fresh, deep green broccoli with tightly closed florets. Avoid broccoli that appears yellow or has wilted leaves.
• Spaghetti (or other long, slender pasta): Any long pasta will do, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, linguine or angel hair pasta. 
• Olive Oil: Select a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich and robust flavor in the dish.
• Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves and mince them for maximum flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount to your preferred level of spiciness.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Look for fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts without discoloration. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer.
• Butter: Salted or unsalted butter works here as you’ll add salt to taste.
• Fresh Parsley: Opt for fresh, flat leaf parsley (Italian parsley) with vibrant green leaves and no signs of wilting.
• Parmesan Cheese: Ideally either freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Recipe Options

• Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh broccoli. That said, frozen broccoli works in a pinch, just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the dish.
• Versatile Protein Options: Feel free to substitute the chicken with leftover rotisserie chicken or other proteins like cooked shrimp, tofu, or roasted vegetables if that’s what you prefer or have on hand.
• Adjust Spiciness: Tailor the dish to your spice preference by adjusting the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount and add more gradually to find your desired level of spiciness.
• Add Decadence: For a creamy sauce, add 1/4 cup or more of heavy cream in step 3 of the recipe (be sure to adjust the seasoning as well).

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days (along with some of the pasta cooking water in the same container or a separate airtight container). When reheating, add the leftover pasta cooking water or chicken broth a little at a time to add moisture to the dish. Adjust seasoning and, ideally, serve topped with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese.

More Fantastic Ways to Enjoy Chicken

• Italian Chicken Cutlets (Quick and easy!)
• Chicken Carnitas (Easy slow cooker recipe!)
• Chicken Kabobs in the Oven
• Or for a vegetarian version of this recipe, Broccoli Pasta.

Looking For Pasta Inspiration? Check Out My 45+ Best Pasta Recipes

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Cook broccoli in a large pot of boiling, salted water until crisp-tender; remove with slotted spoon. Bring same water to boil and cook spaghetti until al dente; drain, saving 1 cup water.

While the pasta cooks, cook garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant in hot olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, cook until nearly cooked through. Add broccoli and butter and cook until chicken is done. Remove from heat.

Add drained pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine, adding pasta water as needed. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to serving bowl or platter and sprinkle with grated parmesan and parsley (optional); serve.