Easy One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta
This Easy One-Pan Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It's perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious dinner ready in about 30 minutes, all in one dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
- Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the pasta and chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Stir in the heavy cream and half of the cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and creamy.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with remaining cheese, let sit for a minute, and serve hot.
Notes
Prepare ingredients ahead of time to save cooking time. Experiment with different pasta shapes and add more cheese for an extra cheesy experience. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.