Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors yet wonderfully comforting, then this Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is going to become your new absolute favorite. Imagine tender, juicy chicken mingling with crisp broccoli florets, all wrapped in a luscious, velvety sauce brightened by a kiss of zesty lemon. This recipe balances creamy richness with refreshing citrus notes, making every bite a delightful experience that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend treat, this one dish brings so much joy to the table that you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in delivering the flavors and textures you love. From the tender chicken to the fresh broccoli and that dreamy creamy sauce, every item is essential and enhances the dish in its own special way.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and a tender texture.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning that elevates the flavor of the chicken and sauce perfectly.
• Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
• Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse a warm, aromatic depth to the dish.
• Broccoli florets: Provide a bright color contrast and a satisfying crunch.
• Chicken broth: Builds the sauce’s savory foundation and keeps it light.
• Heavy cream: Whips the sauce into creamy perfection, indulgent but balanced.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, lending a tangy, nutty richness.
• Penne pasta: Holds the sauce well and offers just the right bite.
• Lemon juice: The star ingredient adding a burst of fresh brightness to the creamy sauce.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of color and fresh herbal note for garnish.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Begin by seasoning those bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Let it brown beautifully, cooking it through for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step ensures juicy, flavorful chicken that forms the hearty base of the dish. Set the cooked chicken aside so it’s ready to mingle with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until its aroma fills your kitchen — about a minute. This little step is crucial because garlic brings a warm, inviting layer of flavor that complements both the chicken and broccoli perfectly.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Next, add the bright green broccoli florets to the skillet. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re tender yet still crisp. You’ll notice how the broccoli’s vibrant color deepens, adding freshness and crunch to the dish.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in half a cup of chicken broth followed by half a cup of heavy cream. Let this mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, thickening just enough to coat your pasta beautifully. This creamy base is what makes the recipe so comforting and indulgent.

Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese

Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until it melts completely. This step infuses the sauce with its signature tangy and nutty flavor, lifting the entire dish into something truly special.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

While your sauce simmers, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente — firm to the bite but not hard. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside, ready to join the creamy mix.

Step 7: Combine Chicken, Broccoli, and Pasta

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Stir everything together so that every piece gets a generous coating of that luscious sauce. This is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a harmonious, comforting meal.

Step 8: Finish with Lemon Juice

Finally, stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. This bright addition cuts through the richness, adding a fresh pop of flavor that makes this Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe stand out in the best way possible.

Step 9: Ready to Serve

Serve the pasta right away, optionally garnished with fresh parsley to add a splash of green and a delicate herbal note. This dish tastes best hot and fresh, so gather your favorite people and dig in!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese can add an inviting finish to this dish. These simple garnishes don’t just look pretty; they bring subtle flavor contrasts that elevate every forkful.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or crusty garlic bread that’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. These sides help round out the meal, balancing the richness of your Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with lemon zest or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little heat. You can even add roasted pine nuts on top for extra texture and nuttiness. These touches turn a simple meal into a visually stunning and memorable experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great option for next-day meals.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to save some for later. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Microwaving works too—just stir every minute or so for even warming, ensuring you enjoy that perfect texture and flavor again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the sauce, other shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle work just as well and bring their own character to the dish.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter but still creamy sauce. Just expect a slightly different texture and richness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and broccoli in advance and store them separately. Assemble with the pasta and sauce right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons? Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Bottled lemon juice is a fine substitute in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice gives a brighter, cleaner flavor that makes a big difference in this Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe.

Can I add other vegetables to this pasta?

Definitely! Sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach can be delicious additions that enhance both color and nutrition without complicating the recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Lemon Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—a perfect blend of comfort and freshness that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for guests. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your family’s rotation—you’re going to love how simple ingredients come together to create something truly amazing.

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