Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

If you’re ready for a dinner that satisfies every craving—from creamy comfort to punchy garlic and golden chicken—look no further than this Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a family-favorite dish that’s bubbling with melted cheese, tossed with plenty of tender broccoli, and layered with garlicky, juicy bites of chicken. It’s a hearty, colorful one-pan wonder that’s sure to become a well-loved staple on your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the things I absolutely love about this Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is the balance of everyday ingredients and big, bold flavors. Each component plays its part, creating a dish with dreamy texture, vibrant color, and unforgettable taste.

• Pasta: Pick penne or rotini for a fun shape that’s perfect for catching every drop of sauce.
• Olive oil: Adds a hint of richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
• Boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for juicy, flavorful bites that cook up fast.
• Broccoli florets: Four cups of green goodness add color, nutrition, and a tender-crisp pop.
• Garlic: Four cloves, minced, for a gorgeously aromatic base—don’t skimp on this!
• All-purpose flour: Just a little helps the sauce thicken up for the dreamiest coating.
• Milk: Use whole or 2% for a rich, velvety sauce.
• Chicken broth: Enhances the savory depth of the sauce while keeping it light.
• Salt: A full teaspoon brings all the flavors together and seasons the pasta perfectly.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and rounds out the cheesy, creamy notes.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce, making it irresistibly creamy and tangy.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Lends a salty, nutty finish that bumps up the flavor with each bite.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and let it cook until just shy of al dente—then, for the last two minutes, toss in your broccoli florets. This trick saves you from dirtying another pan and ensures your broccoli is crisp-tender, colorful, and soaks up some pasta flavor. Drain both together and set aside; they’re about to get super saucy!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While your pasta’s bubbling away, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces in a single layer, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Let them sizzle until golden and cooked through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. For an aromatic punch, add your minced garlic to the chicken in the last minute of cooking—just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Garlic Sauce

Push the chicken to the side of the skillet or temporarily remove it, then sprinkle in the flour. Stir for a minute to eliminate any floury taste, then pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly. Scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, which usually happens in 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper, then gradually add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now comes the fun part—bringing everything together! Add your drained pasta and broccoli straight into the cheesy garlic sauce with the chicken. Give it all a good toss so every piece is generously coated. Warm it through over low heat for another minute or two, letting the pasta soak up the sauce and the cheesy aroma fill your kitchen. Taste and adjust seasoning, then get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh, vibrant garnishes make all the difference. Try a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a scattering of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. If you love a hint of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be delightful. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up all the flavors and adds a chef’s touch to your Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe.

Side Dishes

This dish is satisfying on its own, but it also plays well with others! Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad or simple mixed greens for something fresh and light. Want something a little extra? Warm up some garlic bread or a crusty baguette for dunking into all that creamy sauce. It’s the perfect way to make your dinner feel like a restaurant night at home.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress (or just have some fun), serve your Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe in individual bowls with a big swirl of pasta at the center. For family-style flair, pile it high on a pretty platter and sprinkle with extra cheese and herbs. You can also scoop the pasta into bread bowls or ramekins for a playful twist—just be ready for the oohs and aahs at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Pasta dishes like this can sometimes thicken as they sit; if the sauce gets a little too thick, just add a splash of milk when you reheat it to bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze leftovers! Cool the pasta completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. The broccoli and sauce retain their flavor, though the sauce may separate slightly after freezing. Stir well when reheating, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready for a busy night.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm single servings in the microwave with a splash of milk, or gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Cover the pan to keep in the moisture and ensure the sauce returns to its original creamy glory. Stir in a little extra cheese for more richness if you like!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While the Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe calls for penne or rotini, feel free to use whatever short pasta you have on hand—fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni all work just as well.

What cheeses can I substitute if I don’t have cheddar?

You can try mozzarella for a mild flavor, gouda for smokiness, or even Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts smoothly into the sauce!

Can I add more veggies?

Definitely! Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or baby spinach would all blend beautifully into this Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe. Add quick-cooking veggies with the broccoli for perfectly timed doneness.

Is there a way to make this gluten free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free alternative. Double-check your chicken broth to make sure it’s gluten free, too.

Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?

Of course! Rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver on busy nights. Just shred or cube and add it to the sauce after it thickens, simmering gently so it warms through without drying out.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something comforting and full of flavor, this Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe truly delivers. It’s a dish I love sharing with family and friends, and I hope you’ll make it part of your own rotation. Don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!

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