Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe – Quick Family Dinner

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe: A Family Favorite!

Picture this—a warm, cheesy pasta dish bubbling away on your stove, packed with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and loads of comforting flavor. This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe transforms the lives of busy parents, home cooks, and pasta lovers alike. Not only is it super easy to whip up on hectic weeknights, but it’s also a high-protein recipe that’ll keep the whole family satisfied. Trust us—this one’s going straight to your weeknight dinner rotation!

Whether you’re balancing work and homework or simply seeking a quick dinner idea without sacrificing flavor, this recipe meets all your needs. Using just a few ingredients, a single pot, and 30 minutes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that doesn’t feel rushed. Bonus? It’s totally customizable to fit your family’s favorite flavors!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need for this cheesy goodness:

• Chicken – 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed (Swap idea: Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep!)
• Broccoli – 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (Frozen broccoli works too; just thaw before adding.)
• Pasta – 12 oz penne or any short pasta (Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.)
• Cheese – 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar (Feeling fancy? Swap with Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mix!)
• Milk – 2 cups milk for a creamy base (For a richer sauce, use half-and-half.)
• Chicken Broth – 1 cup for added flavor (Substitute with veggie broth if needed.)
• Butter – 2 tablespoons (Olive oil works in a pinch.)
• Flour – 2 tablespoons, to thicken the sauce (Gluten-free flour works, too!)
• Garlic – 2 cloves minced, for that irresistible aroma
• Salt and Pepper – To taste

Optional toppings:

• Parmesan Cheese – For an extra cheesy kick
• Red Pepper Flakes – For those who like it spicy

Now that’s what I call a simple lineup!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

Start by cubing your chicken and chopping broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. This ensures everything cooks evenly and blends perfectly with the pasta. If you’re using frozen broccoli, thaw it and pat dry.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or deep pot over medium heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter (or add a drizzle of olive oil) and cook the chicken cubes for about 5-7 minutes, until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth and bubbly.

Step 4: Boil Pasta & Broccoli (All-in-One!)

Stir in your pasta into the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets. No separate boiling required!

Step 5: Add Cheese and Chicken

Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time. Once fully melted and creamy, add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon the cheesy goodness onto plates or bowls, sprinkle with Parmesan if you’d like, and serve immediately. Watch your family devour it!

Read More: Top 6 High-Protein Chicken Recipes to Try Today

Pro Cooking Tips

Make this dish even better with these insider tips:

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta—it’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
• Add Broccoli Early for Softer Texture: If you prefer softer broccoli, toss it in earlier.
• Control the Sauce Thickness: Want a thicker sauce? Simmer longer. Prefer a thinner one? Add a splash of milk or broth.
• Pre-Shred Cheese: For smoother melting, shred your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded.

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Variations to Try

Make it your own with these creative twists!

• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for more nutrients and color.
• Different Proteins: Sub in shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for the chicken.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a tablespoon of hot sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper.
• Herb Lovers: Add basil, parsley, or thyme for fresh, aromatic flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe has all the makings of a household favorite:

• It’s quick and easy, requiring just 30 minutes and one pot.
• It’s family-approved, with flavors and textures kids and adults love.
• It’s versatile, offering plenty of options to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Put simple, cozy, and delicious meals back on your dinner table—without stress or mess.

Try This Recipe Tonight!

Now that you’ve got everything you need to make this dish, it’s time to grab those ingredients and start cooking! Trust me, this Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is so good, it might just become your family’s most-requested dinner. Don’t forget to save and share this recipe to spread the love.

Happy cooking—and even happier eating!

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