After a long day, who has time for a sink full of dishes and a complicated dinner? That’s exactly why I love this one-pan chicken and broccoli pasta recipe. It brings together everything we crave—tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, flavorful sauce—in one single skillet.
Even better, it’s perfect for busy families or solo foodies who want something delicious with minimal effort. What sets this dish apart is the perfect balance between protein, veggies, and carbs—without the need for multiple pots or long prep times.
From my own experience, this was the first recipe I ever made when I moved into my first apartment. I had only one pan and zero patience for takeout every night. Since then, it’s become a weekly go-to. And now, I’m sharing it with you.
If you’re hungry for more kitchen inspiration, be sure to explore Tapa Society—they offer a wide variety of simple, wholesome meals like this that anyone can master.
Why One-Pan Meals Are a Game-Changer for Home Cooks
We all love flavorful meals, but no one loves doing dishes. One-pan meals solve that problem fast. They’re a go-to for busy people who still care about eating well.
Here’s why they’re winning hearts (and kitchens) across the country:
- Less cleanup: You only need one skillet, pot, or pan.
- Quick cooking: You save time when everything simmers together.
- Flavorful outcomes: The ingredients cook in one place, building richer, deeper flavors.
A study from the USDA found that 58% of American adults struggle to cook homemade meals due to time constraints. One-pan recipes, like this chicken and broccoli pasta, reduce both time and stress in the kitchen.
From personal experience, these meals are also budget-friendly. You don’t need expensive tools or exotic ingredients—just pantry basics and fresh produce. And if you’re ever curious about other Italian-style dishes, you can discover is risotto a pasta or rice last at https://tapasociety.com/mastering-arborio-boiling-time-techniques/is-risotto-rice-or-pasta/ for more cozy one-pot wonders.
Benefits of one-pan cooking:
- Boosts weekday meal success
- Encourages healthy cooking habits
- Makes family meals more achievable
So if you’re looking to simplify dinner without sacrificing taste, this one-pan meal is a no-brainer.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe
This recipe uses wholesome, everyday ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen.
Here’s your shopping list:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese (optional for added creaminess)
The key is to balance everything in one pan. Broccoli adds fiber and vitamins. Chicken offers protein. Pasta brings the comfort we all love.
Optional add-ons:
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Lemon zest for brightness
- Mozzarella for extra cheese lovers
According to the Mayo Clinic, incorporating vegetables like broccoli regularly can support heart health and reduce inflammation. This dish sneaks in greens while still feeling indulgent.
Step-by-Step: How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Ready to cook? This step-by-step guide will make sure your one-pan pasta turns out creamy and delicious every time.
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pan. Add seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden brown (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (1–2 minutes). Add broccoli and stir.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir in the uncooked pasta. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Let It Simmer
Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pan and cook for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep pasta from sticking.
Related: 4 quick ways of cooking chicken
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in Parmesan and cream cheese. Let it simmer another 3 minutes until creamy and smooth.
Tips for Success:
- Use a non-stick or stainless steel deep pan.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth.
Nutrition Breakdown: What Makes This Dish Balanced?
This one-pan recipe doesn’t just taste good—it’s nutritionally balanced too.
Here’s what each serving roughly contains:
- Calories: 450–500
- Protein: 30–35g
- Carbohydrates: 40–45g
- Fat: 15–20g
- Fiber: 4–5g
That makes it ideal for families, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking to enjoy a healthier home-cooked dinner.
Why it works:
- Chicken breast is lean and high in protein.
- Broccoli adds fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Pasta provides sustained energy from complex carbs.
According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, a healthy dinner should include lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables—just like this dish does.
You can always tweak ingredients:
- Use whole-wheat pasta for extra fiber.
- Swap out dairy for lactose-free or plant-based options.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggies.
Storage, Leftovers, and Meal Prep Tips
One-pan chicken and broccoli pasta also makes the perfect leftover lunch or meal prep hero.
Storing:
- Let the dish cool completely before storing.
- Use an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating Tips:
- Reheat in a microwave or pan with a splash of milk or broth.
- Stir halfway through for even heating.
Freezing:
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and portion into meal prep containers for easy lunches during the week. This saves time and money.
From my own routine, I find making this on Sunday evening sets me up for better weekday lunches. I feel more energized and skip last-minute takeout.
Related: 4 perfect snack recipes
Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
In a world of complicated recipes and long grocery lists, this one-pan chicken and broccoli pasta recipe keeps things simple and comforting.
It’s rich but not heavy, healthy but not bland, and easy enough for even a beginner to master. Plus, it’s endlessly flexible.
With just one pan and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a homemade meal that’s good enough for guests—but simple enough for weeknights.
Let’s recap why this recipe is a winner:
- One pan = minimal cleanup
- Balanced nutrition
- Ready in 30 minutes
- Delicious comfort food
Cooking doesn’t have to be stressful. When you have recipes like this, it’s more about joy than hassle.
Now it’s your turn! Try the recipe this week and let us know how it went. Did you tweak it? Add a personal twist? Leave a comment below or share this recipe with someone who needs an easy, cozy dinner tonight.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells work best because they cook evenly and hold the sauce well.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works great. Add it slightly earlier so it has time to soften.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs add extra flavor and remain juicy even after simmering.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk and omit the cheese or replace it with dairy-free alternatives.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Skip the chicken and add more vegetables or use plant-based chicken substitutes.
