Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

There’s something about the combo of pasta, chicken, and broccoli that brings back memories of family dinners in my college apartment. Back then, cooking meant tossing things into one pot and hoping for the best—and this dish became my trusty go-to. It was simple, satisfying, and always turned out tasty, even with my minimal cooking skills.

Now, years later, it’s still one of my favorite quick and healthy meals. This version of chicken and broccoli pasta is perfect for beginner cooks who want something that tastes like comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a one-pan wonder, comes together in under 30 minutes, and is loaded with lean protein and green veggies. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe hits all the marks for flavor, ease, and nutrition.

Why This Recipe is Special

What sets this easy sheet pan dinner apart is its total flexibility and beginner-friendly approach. You don’t need fancy techniques or special tools. The ingredients are everyday staples, and everything comes together quickly in one pan—meaning minimal cleanup, too.

The light lemon herb flavor keeps it fresh and bright, while the creamy pasta brings richness without being heavy. It’s the kind of dish that looks and tastes impressive, but even if you’ve never cooked a full meal before, you can make this with confidence.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:

Chicken breast or thighs
This is your main protein source. It adds heartiness and absorbs all the delicious herb and lemon flavors. Thighs will be juicier, while breasts are leaner—pick based on your preference.

Broccoli florets
They add crunch, color, and tons of vitamins like C and K. Broccoli also balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
Pasta gives the dish its cozy, satisfying base. Short pastas hold the sauce better, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.

Garlic
A few cloves of garlic go a long way in building a warm, savory aroma that deepens the flavor.

Lemon juice and zest
Lemon brightens the entire dish, cutting through the cream and tying everything together with fresh citrus notes.

Olive oil
Used to sauté and coat ingredients, olive oil enhances texture and brings healthy fats.

Parmesan cheese
It adds a sharp, nutty finish. You can swap it with Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick or skip it altogether for a dairy-free version.

Heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
This is what makes the sauce creamy. Use as little or as much as you like—or replace with Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a healthier twist.

Italian seasoning or fresh herbs (basil, parsley, thyme)
These give the dish its signature lemon herb chicken flavor. Dried blends are super easy, but fresh herbs will elevate the flavor even more.

Salt and pepper
Simple but essential—season as you go to build flavor throughout.

Optional extras: Add red pepper flakes for heat, or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces), season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden and cooked through.

Step 3
Add the garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—burnt garlic turns bitter quickly.

Step 4
Toss in the broccoli florets and stir to coat them with the garlic and oil. Pour in a splash of water or chicken broth and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the broccoli steam for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still bright green.

Step 5
Add the cooked pasta back into the pan along with lemon juice, lemon zest, and a drizzle of heavy cream or your chosen alternative. Stir everything together, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 6
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and toss to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Let everything warm through for 1-2 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 7
Serve warm with an extra squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. That’s it—your lemon herb chicken pasta is ready to enjoy.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Don’t overcook the broccoli. You want it tender but still bright green. If it turns dull or mushy, you’ve gone too far.

Cut your chicken evenly. Uniform pieces cook more evenly, preventing dry spots.

Watch your garlic. Burnt garlic happens fast and can ruin the entire flavor. Keep your eye on the pan and stir constantly during that step.

Use the pasta water. This starchy liquid helps the sauce cling better to the noodles, so always save a little before draining.

No cream? No problem. Blend a spoonful of Greek yogurt with a bit of lemon juice and olive oil for a lighter creamy alternative.

Prepping ahead helps. Chop everything before you start cooking—it makes the process smoother and way less stressful.

Serving Suggestions

This easy sheet pan dinner is super versatile. You can serve it as-is for a complete meal, or dress it up with these ideas:

Side Ideas:

• Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
• A light Caesar salad or spinach arugula mix
• Roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms

Extra Sauce Options:

• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet tang
• A dollop of pesto for herby richness
• Add a spoonful of sun-dried tomato paste for umami depth

Storing Leftovers:
Let everything cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze it for up to a month, though the texture of the broccoli may soften after thawing.

Conclusion

If you’re just getting started in the kitchen, this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is your perfect first win. It’s approachable, forgiving, and delicious every time—and the best part? It tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant, but you made it yourself.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it goes in the comments. Did you add a twist of your own? Any beginner questions I can help with? I’d love to hear how your version turns out. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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