Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken & Broccoli

A creamy, dreamy pasta dish packed with flavor, protein, and greens

When it comes to cozy comfort food that’s quick, easy, and loaded with flavor, this Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken & Broccoli checks all the boxes. It’s a weeknight hero—a dish that comes together in less than 30 minutes and is loved by both kids and adults. Juicy chunks of chicken breast are sautéed to golden perfection, broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition, and the luscious sauce—infused with cream cheese and basil pesto—wraps everything together into a velvety masterpiece.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or craving a wholesome yet indulgent one-pot pasta dinner, this recipe delivers big-time satisfaction without complicated steps or ingredients. Let’s dive into this hearty, creamy, and oh-so-delicious pasta dish.

 Ingredients (US Measurements)

Here are the exact quantities you’ll need to make 4 generous servings of this recipe:

• 8 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)

• 8 oz frozen broccoli florets

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks

• 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 4 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes for easier melting

 Preparation Time & Nutritional Info

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Calories: ~500 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings)

This makes it an ideal weeknight meal that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long but will keep everyone full and satisfied.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli

1. Boil the water:
   Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt to flavor the pasta as it cooks.

2. Cook the pasta:
   Once boiling, add 8 oz of bow tie pasta and cook according to the package directions (usually around 7–8 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Add the broccoli:
   During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking time, stir in the 8 oz of frozen broccoli florets. Let them cook with the pasta until tender and bright green.

4. Drain and set aside:
   Drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander and set them aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Prepare the chicken:
   Cut 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breast into small, even-sized pieces (about ½-inch cubes) to ensure quick, uniform cooking.

2. Sear the chicken:
   In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.

3. Cook until golden:
   Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Let it sear without moving it too much—this gives it that beautiful golden-brown crust. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.

4. Set aside:
   Once the chicken is done, you can leave it in the skillet or temporarily transfer it to a plate while you make the sauce in the same pan.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

1. Lower the heat:
   Reduce the heat to low or medium-low to prevent the cream cheese from curdling.

2. Add chicken broth and cream cheese:
   Pour ½ cup chicken broth into the skillet, then add the 4 oz of cream cheese in small chunks. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and blends with the broth to form a smooth, creamy sauce.

3. Incorporate the pesto:
   Stir in ⅓ cup of basil pesto, mixing until everything is fully combined and the sauce is velvety green and aromatic.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Reintroduce the pasta and broccoli:
   Add the cooked pasta and broccoli directly into the skillet with the sauce.

2. Add the chicken (if removed earlier):
   If you took the chicken out while making the sauce, now is the time to add it back in.

3. Toss and heat through:
   Gently toss everything together using tongs or a large spoon to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated in the sauce. Let it warm through for 2–3 minutes.

4. Serve hot:
   Plate up the pasta while it’s warm and creamy. Garnish with optional grated Parmesan cheese, cracked black pepper, or fresh basil leaves if you like.

 Why This Recipe Works

This dish is a balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients:

• Creaminess: The combo of cream cheese and pesto gives the dish a luscious texture without needing heavy cream.

• Protein-Packed: Chicken adds lean protein, making it a satisfying main course.

• Green Boost: Broccoli not only adds a nice crunch and color contrast but also sneaks in veggies for a balanced meal.

• Quick & Easy: Minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a one-pan sauce make this a no-fuss favorite.

 Cooking Tips & Variations

Use Different Pasta Shapes:
While bow tie pasta works beautifully, don’t hesitate to substitute with penne, rotini, shells, or even spaghetti—whatever you have on hand.

Go Fresh with Broccoli:
If you prefer fresh broccoli, chop it into bite-sized florets and steam or blanch them for 2–3 minutes before adding them to the pasta.

Make It Vegetarian:
Omit the chicken and substitute with white beans, mushrooms, or more veggies. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the dish vegetarian.

Add a Flavor Kick:
Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a drizzle of lemon juice at the end for extra zing. You can also stir in grated Parmesan for umami depth.

Make It Ahead:
This pasta reheats well, so it’s great for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Make It Creamier:
If you prefer a saucier pasta, increase the cream cheese to 6 oz and add a splash more broth or milk to adjust consistency.

 Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette or lemon dressing for a balanced meal.

• Garlic Bread: Pair with warm, crusty garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up all the creamy pesto goodness.

• Roasted Veggies: Want to add even more color to the plate? Roasted cherry tomatoes or bell peppers make a great side.

 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: While you can freeze this, the texture of the sauce may slightly change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

• Reheat: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between. Add a splash of broth or milk if it looks too thick.

 Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: ~500 kcal

• Protein: ~30g

• Carbohydrates: ~40g

• Fat: ~25g

• Fiber: ~3g

• Sugars: ~3g

• Sodium: ~550mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on the exact brands and ingredients used.

 Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting about a big bowl of pasta—and when you add creamy pesto, hearty chicken, and broccoli, you’ve got a complete meal in one dish. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights when you want something fast but flavorful, wholesome but indulgent.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also highly adaptable. Keep it simple or customize it to fit your cravings or dietary preferences. No matter how you serve it, this Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken & Broccoli is bound to earn a regular spot on your dinner rotation.