Name: One Pot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: For the Pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped; 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525 g / 18.5 oz), cut into bite-size pieces; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed; 60 ml (¼ cup) white wine (optional; substitute with water or stock if preferred); 600 ml (2½ cups) good-quality chicken stock; 180 ml (¾ cup) whole milk; 300 g (10.5 oz) dried pasta (short shapes like fusilli, penne, or shells); 300 g (10.5 oz) broccoli florets, cut small; 1 tsp lemon juice; 50 g (½ packed cup) grated parmesan; To Serve; Freshly chopped parsley; Cracked black pepper

Creamy one pot chicken and broccoli pasta made with tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli, parmesan cheese, and a light garlic sauce. This easy chicken pasta recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Everything cooks in one pan—no need to boil pasta separately. Ideal for family meals, meal prep, or beginner home cooks looking for a simple and comforting chicken pasta dish with minimal cleanup.

This creamy one-pot chicken and broccoli pasta is an easy, comforting dinner made with simple ingredients. Everything cooks together in one pan, including the pasta—making cleanup a breeze.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Pasta

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped
3 chicken breasts (approx. 525 g / 18.5 oz), cut into bite-size pieces
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
60 ml (¼ cup) white wine (optional; substitute with water or stock if preferred)
600 ml (2½ cups) good-quality chicken stock
180 ml (¾ cup) whole milk
300 g (10.5 oz) dried pasta (short shapes like fusilli, penne, or shells)
300 g (10.5 oz) broccoli florets, cut small
1 tsp lemon juice
50 g (½ packed cup) grated parmesan

To Serve

Freshly chopped parsley
Cracked black pepper

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken and Onion
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion, chicken, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, until the chicken is lightly browned and the onion is soft.
Add Garlic and Deglaze
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the white wine and simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add Liquids and Pasta
Add the chicken stock and milk. Bring to a boil, then stir in the dried pasta. Reduce heat to a low simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for 10 minutes.
Add Broccoli
Stir in the broccoli, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes, until the pasta is cooked and the broccoli is tender.
Finish and Serve
Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and grated parmesan until melted and creamy. Serve garnished with parsley and black pepper.

Tips

Cut the broccoli small so it cooks quickly and evenly.
Use short pasta shapes for better consistency and easier one-pan cooking.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially once the pasta is added.
Freshly grate your parmesan for better melt and flavor than pre-shredded cheese.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein options: Swap chicken with cooked turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist.
Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and omit the parmesan or use vegan cheese.
Extra veggies: Add spinach, peas, zucchini, or asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking.
No wine: Replace with a splash of extra stock or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Add it straight from the freezer during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

What kind of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or shells are ideal for one-pot recipes.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or stock.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Not recommended—cooked pasta and dairy sauces may change in texture once thawed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a green side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Top with extra parmesan or chili flakes for more flavor.
A wedge of lemon on the side adds a fresh citrusy touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pot chicken pasta is creamy, flavorful, and simple to prepare. With no need to boil pasta separately, it saves time and dishes—perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and cheesy sauce is a family-friendly favorite that always delivers comfort.