Warm, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavors, Chicken Broccoli Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce is a dish that truly delights. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that combines tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and succulent chicken in a luscious lemon cream sauce. This recipe works because the brightness of lemon perfectly balances the richness of the cream, resulting in a satisfying symphony of flavors.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet easy to prepare. It’s also great for gatherings with family or friends, offering a delicious meal that feels special but is effortless to make. You can make it ahead and store it for a quick weeknight dinner later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The creaminess of the sauce perfectly coats each piece of pasta.
- Fresh lemon juice adds an uplifting brightness to the dish.
- Cooking the broccoli with the pasta means less cleanup.
- It’s a quick and satisfying meal in about 30 minutes.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a delightful dish:
For the Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
For the Sauce
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Substitutions: Use cooked rotisserie chicken for ease or half and half instead of heavy cream.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works well.
- Pasta: Any short pasta can be used.
- Heavy cream: Substitute half and half for lighter sauce.
- Broccoli: Frozen broccoli florets function well too.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps for a delicious dinner.
1. Cook
Cook the pasta according to package instructions, adding the broccoli florets in the last 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add Chicken
Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to warm it through.
4. Combine Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Toss
Combine the drained pasta and broccoli with the sauce in the skillet. Toss to evenly coat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the cream does not freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum flavor.
- Ensure the cream simmers long enough to thicken slightly.
- Adjust the seasoning by tasting before serving.
- Experiment with adding cooked spinach for extra greens.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting touch.
- Enjoy with a crisp white wine for an elevated dining experience.
