If you are on the lookout for a comforting, wholesome meal that packs a punch in both flavor and nutrition, then the Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta with Broccoli Recipe is your go-to dish. This vibrant and luscious pasta combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and crisp broccoli all smothered in a dreamy, cheesy cream sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s like a warm hug on a plate that’s perfect for busy weeknights or sharing with family and friends. The harmony between the creamy sauce, the slight crunch from the broccoli, and the hearty pasta makes every bite truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, fresh ingredients come together effortlessly, each one playing a vital role in the success of this dish. From the tender chicken adding protein, to the fresh spinach and broccoli bringing color and nutrients, every element is essential for creating a balanced, satisfying meal.
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta: Choose your favorite shape for catching that creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for juicy, tender bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, enhancing the flavor with a subtle richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic adds an irresistible aromatic kick.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds vibrant green color and a delicious snap.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Wilts beautifully into the sauce and boosts nutrition effortlessly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes this dish so indulgent.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Enhances the savory depth of the sauce without overpowering it.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a rich, salty flavor that ties the creaminess together.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds the perfect blend of herbs for a classic Italian flair.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors precisely.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle heat to keep things interesting.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who crave a bit of spicy heat at the finish.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Brings a fresh pop of color and brightness to the final dish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta with Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually about 10-12 minutes. With just 2 minutes remaining on the pasta’s cooking time, toss in the broccoli florets. This timing ensures the broccoli stays bright, slightly crunchy, and perfectly tender. Drain everything well and set aside, ready for the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While your pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir occasionally as the chicken cooks for 5 to 6 minutes, until it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside. This step is crucial to lock in juicy flavor and give the chicken a satisfying texture. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for now.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that fragrant garlic aroma filling your kitchen. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This delicate simmer allows the sauce to thicken gradually without curdling. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt evenly into the sauce for a velvety finish.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now, it’s time to bring all your components together. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, fresh spinach, and sautéed chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until the spinach wilts and every strand of pasta and piece of chicken is luxuriously coated with the rich sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding extra salt, black pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if you love a little heat.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta with Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens each serving beautifully, adding a hint of freshness and color contrast against the creamy sauce. For those who like a touch of heat, red pepper flakes provide just the right punch. Cracked black pepper on top can also elevate the flavor and make the presentation even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This pasta dish stands well on its own but pairs delightfully with a crisp green salad, perhaps dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are also fantastic companions to scoop up any extra sauce and keep things classic and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta with Broccoli Recipe in wide shallow bowls to showcase its colorful ingredients. For a restaurant-worthy touch, drizzle a little extra olive oil on top and scatter some toasted pine nuts or a few shavings of Parmesan. A slice of lemon on the side can add a bright option for guests craving a citrusy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy chicken pasta stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and the texture intact.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta with Broccoli Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce and bring back that silky creaminess. Avoid high heat to prevent the cream from breaking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini are ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, feel free to use farfalle, fusilli, or even fettuccine depending on what you have on hand.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce that still tastes delicious, though the texture will be less rich.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely, mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes would be fantastic additions for extra color and flavor. Just sauté them with the chicken for best results.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe itself is mild, but adding red pepper flakes gives it a pleasant, optional kick. You can adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
Can I prepare this recipe for meal prep?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep because it keeps well and reheats beautifully. Just portion it into containers and you’ll have a hearty lunch or dinner ready to go.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta with Broccoli Recipe enough if you’re craving something that’s comforting, nutritious, and effortlessly elegant. It’s truly a standout dish that’s simple enough for any weeknight but impressive enough to share. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta that brings everyone back to the table asking for seconds!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta with Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and comforting chicken pasta dish loaded with tender broccoli and fresh spinach, cooked in a rich Parmesan-infused sauce. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain both and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Make Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken Sauce: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked pasta, broccoli, spinach, and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until the spinach wilts and all ingredients are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Adjust and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Adding mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- This dish reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers.
