Description
If you’re after a quick, cozy dinner idea that hits all the right notes, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Pasta delivers! With tender pasta shells coated in a velvety cheese sauce, juicy shredded chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s a satisfying one-pan wonder. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or anyone craving a comfort food fix. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, quick pasta meals, or healthy-ish comfort food, this creamy classic will earn a regular spot on your menu.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta shells
1 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
2 cups broccoli florets
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream and let simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Gradually add cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss the cooked chicken and broccoli into the sauce and stir well to coat.
6. Add the cooked pasta shells and fold gently to combine.
7. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated parmesan and extra black pepper.
Notes
Rotisserie chicken makes this even quicker for a weeknight meal.
Add red chili flakes if you prefer a little heat in your pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx.)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 105mg