Introduction
Hi, I’m Nancy! The first time I made this One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, I was rushing home after a busy day. I wanted something fast but comforting. The whole family loved how creamy and flavorful it was, and cleanup was a breeze — just one pot to wash! This dish quickly became a weeknight staple in our home. It’s proof that simple ingredients can make magic happen when you cook with love and a little creativity.
If you’re craving a comforting dinner that’s quick, easy, and saves you from doing a mountain of dishes, this One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is about to become your new weeknight hero. In this article, I’ll share how this simple dish came to life in my kitchen, what makes it so delicious, and how you can customize it to fit your taste. From the first bite to the last, you’ll love how this pasta brings chicken, broccoli, and cheesy goodness together in one cozy pot. Plus, I’ll answer popular questions about creamy chicken pasta recipes to help you every step of the way.
How One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Became My Go-To Dinner
There’s something magical about the way a single pot can create such a satisfying meal. This One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta was born on a chilly evening when I needed dinner fast but wanted something comforting too. I still remember standing in my cozy kitchen at packrecipes.com, staring into my fridge, spotting leftover broccoli and chicken breasts. Instead of making another plain grilled chicken plate, I grabbed my big pot and let my imagination do the rest.
I tossed in the pasta, poured in the broth, and watched everything come together with hardly any mess to clean up later. It was one of those nights that reminded me why I started packrecipes.com — to share easy, hearty meals that make home cooking fun again. Now, whenever busy days hit, this dish is my reliable fix. If you’ve tried my Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake or my One-Pot Boursin Chicken Pasta, you’ll find this recipe just as comforting but even quicker to make.
What makes this dish shine is its simplicity. Everything cooks in one pot, the flavors mingle beautifully, and the clean-up is minimal. Whether you’re feeding your family or just craving a bowl of creamy pasta, this One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta hits the spot every time. So grab your ingredients and let’s bring some warmth to your table tonight.
One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add broccoli florets and cooked chicken back to the pot. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy your easy one-pot dinner!
Notes
Why One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Is Perfect for Busy Nights
When life gets hectic, you don’t want to juggle multiple pots and pans just to get dinner on the table. That’s exactly why One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is my go-to when I need something hearty yet fuss-free. It saves time, energy, and sanity — especially on weeknights when everyone’s hungry and there’s no room for complicated meals.
One reason this dish works so well is because you build layers of flavor in just one pot. The chicken browns first, leaving behind tasty bits that the garlic and pasta soak up beautifully. The broccoli adds a fresh, tender bite that balances out the creamy, cheesy sauce. Everything cooks together, so there’s no draining or separate boiling required. It’s one of those meals that make you wonder why you’d ever cook pasta any other way.
If you’ve enjoyed my Best Chicken Pasta Recipe, you already know how important it is to keep things simple without sacrificing taste. This recipe does exactly that. Plus, clean-up is as easy as it gets — just wash one pot and you’re done!
For extra convenience, you can tweak this One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta to suit what you have on hand. Out of penne? Use rotini or shells. No cheddar? Try parmesan or a sprinkle of mozzarella for extra meltiness. You can even add a splash of cream if you want it extra rich, like my Alfredo Chicken Broccoli Pasta.
So, the next time your schedule’s tight, remember this recipe. It’s comfort food that doesn’t require a sink full of dishes — just one pot, a little stirring, and a lot of flavor. Now that’s dinner done right!
Simple Steps to Master One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Making One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta couldn’t be easier. The beauty is in its simple steps that anyone can master, even on the busiest nights. You don’t need fancy techniques or special tools — just a large pot, fresh ingredients, and a few minutes of hands-on time.
Begin by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. This is a crucial step as it creates a rich, flavorful base. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot to keep it tender while you move on to the next step. In the same pot, cook the garlic for roughly a minute until fragrant. It releases its fragrance quickly, so keep an eye on it.
Next comes the pasta. Pour in the penne, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well and bring it all to a gentle boil. Cover the pot and let it simmer while you give it an occasional stir. After about ten minutes, your pasta will be halfway to perfection. Return the chicken to the pan along with the broccoli florets. This timing ensures the broccoli stays bright and tender without turning mushy.
Once everything’s cooked through, stir in the shredded cheddar or parmesan. That final swirl of cheese makes this dish creamy, melty, and utterly comforting. If you love creamy dinners like my Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe, you’ll appreciate how this method delivers big flavor with no extra fuss.
For another easy favorite, check out my Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole. It’s another one-pot wonder that turns pantry basics into a family hit. But for now, grab your spoon and taste that creamy, cheesy pasta goodness straight from the pot — you’ve earned it.
Tips, Variations, and How to Store One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s make your One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta even better. A few simple tweaks can transform this classic into a dish you’ll crave week after week.
First, switch up the cheese. Cheddar delivers a bold, tangy flavor, while parmesan brings a rich, nutty complexity. Try Boursin if you’re feeling fancy — it melts beautifully and adds a subtle garlic herb kick. In fact, my One Pot Boursin Chicken Pasta is another must-try if you’re hooked on creamy sauces.
Don’t stop at broccoli. Stir in baby spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra greens. Love a little heat? Sprinkle red pepper flakes while you sauté the garlic. It adds a subtle yet invigorating twist to the entire dish.
Leftovers store well too. Keep your pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, stir in a little milk or broth to maintain its creamy texture. I always do this trick, especially when doubling the recipe for easy lunches.
If you’d like to prep ahead, dice your chicken and chop your broccoli in the morning. Dinner will be on the table in under 30 minutes when you’re ready to cook. That’s what I call weeknight magic!
I share time-saving ideas like this all over PackRecipes.com. From wholesome family dinners to simple one-pot wonders, you’ll find new favorites like my Best Chicken Pasta Recipe. Try them all and discover how easy it is to create comforting meals without the pile of dishes.
So grab your biggest pot, gather your fresh ingredients, and make this One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta your own. It’s quick, flexible, and guaranteed to bring everyone back to the table for seconds.
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you can see more recipes :
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Conclusion
One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta delivers comfort, convenience, and flavor all in one easy dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a quick solo meal, this recipe balances tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy pasta in a perfectly seasoned sauce. With simple steps and versatile ingredients, it adapts to your pantry and preferences. Try it tonight to enjoy a fuss-free dinner that feels homemade and satisfying. Don’t forget to explore other favorites like Broccoli Rice Cheese and Chicken Casserole for more delicious one-pot ideas!
Frequently Asked Questions about One-Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Can I make one-pot broccoli pasta without chicken?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and still enjoy a delicious, creamy one-pot broccoli pasta. Simply increase the broccoli or add mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
What’s the best cheese for Alfredo chicken broccoli pasta?
Parmesan is classic for Alfredo, but shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Boursin work well too. Each adds a different creamy richness to the dish.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking in a one-pot recipe?
Stir frequently during cooking, especially once the pasta begins to soften. Using enough liquid like broth and milk also helps prevent sticking.
Can I freeze one-pot chicken and broccoli pasta leftovers?
Yes, but freezing creamy pasta dishes can change their texture. For best results, refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently with added liquid instead.
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