Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta

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This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort food in a bowl. It’s creamy, cozy, and incredibly easy to make—ready in under 30 minutes, making it a dream come true for busy weeknights. The tender shells are coated in a velvety cheddar-infused sauce, while the juicy chicken and vibrant broccoli bring the perfect balance of flavor and nourishment.

What makes this dish a weeknight hero is how little effort it takes for such bold flavor. The cheese sauce hugs every curl of the pasta, the chicken adds satisfying protein, and the broccoli brings a pop of green freshness that complements it all. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hungry adults, this pasta wins every time.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Shells are ideal for catching and holding the cheesy sauce, but feel free to use penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni if that’s what you have on hand. The key is using a shape that grabs onto the sauce, giving you that rich cheesy bite in every forkful.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta

• Pasta Shells – These are the base of the dish and great for holding creamy sauces in every crevice.
• Cooked Chicken – Shredded or chopped, this adds a hearty protein that makes the meal filling.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets – Lightly blanched or steamed to keep a slight crunch while adding color and nutrients.
• Cheddar Cheese – For that ultra-cheesy, melty richness that defines this dish.
• Heavy Cream – Creates the luxurious base of the cheese sauce.
• Butter – Adds silkiness and helps melt the cheese evenly.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder – Boosts savory depth.
• Salt and Black Pepper – To season everything perfectly.
• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty finish.

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How To Make the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Gradually add cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Broccoli

Toss the shredded chicken and broccoli into the cheese sauce. Mix well to coat.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta shells and fold gently to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a few cracks of black pepper.

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How to Serve and Store This Pasta

Serve the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta immediately for the best creamy texture. It’s perfect right out of the skillet. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream in a pan over medium-low heat to bring back the saucy texture without drying it out.

What to Serve With Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up extra cheese sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp, tangy contrast to the rich pasta.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their nutty flavor pairs surprisingly well with cheddar.

Grilled Zucchini

Light and fresh, ideal alongside this hearty dish.

Tomato Basil Soup

A warm starter that plays well with cheesy pasta.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy, they balance out the richness.

Green Bean Almondine

Adds crunch and brightness to the plate.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this creamy, cheesy goodness, you might want to check out these delicious dinner-worthy options next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for another quick and cozy one-pot meal.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe that takes romantic pasta to the next level.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan when you’re craving garlic-forward flavors.
• Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti if you want another creamy, cheesy chicken combo.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a beefy twist.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use rotisserie chicken? Maybe add some red chili flakes for heat?

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