There are few dishes as universally loved as creamy chicken pasta. It’s the kind of recipe that brings together all the best things—juicy chicken, tender pasta, colorful vegetables, and a rich, cheesy sauce that ties it all together. This particular version goes one step further, incorporating vibrant broccoli, celery, and bell pepper for freshness, while Parmesan adds that unmistakable savory finish. It’s hearty enough for dinner yet elegant enough to serve to guests. Even better, it’s a one-pan style meal that’s surprisingly easy to pull together on a busy evening.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• Butter (for sautéing)

• Fresh garlic, minced

• 500 g (1.1 lb) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Olive oil

• Ground black pepper, to taste

• Salt, to taste

• Sweet paprika powder

• 250 g (8.8 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)

• 1 fresh red onion, diced

• Fresh celery, chopped

• 1 fresh orange bell pepper, chopped

• Fresh broccoli florets

• Garlic powder

• 240 ml (1 cup) cream

• 100 g (3.5 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the pasta by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, making sure to reserve about half a cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.

2. In a large skillet, melt butter with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

3. Add the chicken breast pieces to the skillet and season with salt, ground black pepper, and sweet paprika. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil. Add the diced red onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the chopped orange bell pepper and broccoli florets, then sauté until just tender but still bright in color. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder.

5. Lower the heat slightly and pour in the cream, stirring gently. Allow it to come to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach the right consistency.

6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in sauce and all the ingredients are well distributed.

7. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. Each portion should have a balance of chicken, veggies, and pasta for the perfect bite.

Nutrients

• Calories: 520 kcal per serving

• Protein: 34 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Carbohydrates: 46 g

• Fiber: 4 g

• Calcium: 20% DV

• Vitamin C: 65% DV

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken pasta checks all the boxes. It’s creamy without being heavy, thanks to the fresh vegetables that cut through the richness. The chicken adds a satisfying dose of protein, while Parmesan brings depth of flavor. It’s a full, balanced meal in one skillet, meaning fewer dishes to clean up. Even picky eaters tend to love it because the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, and the combination of cheese and cream is universally comforting.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Creamy pasta dishes are a hallmark of Italian-inspired cooking, though this particular recipe has a more modern, fusion-style twist. Instead of sticking with the traditional cream and cheese pairing alone, the addition of fresh vegetables makes this version lighter and healthier while still indulgent. It’s inspired by the kind of pasta dishes you’d find at cozy family restaurants—satisfying, hearty, and loaded with flavor—but made simple enough to prepare at home on a weeknight.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken breast is lean and tender, making it a perfect protein to balance the richness of cream and cheese. Parmesan is the backbone of the sauce, giving it that nutty, salty flavor that can’t be replicated with other cheeses. Broccoli and bell pepper not only add color but also pack in nutrients and freshness. The red onion provides sweetness, while celery adds a subtle earthy crunch. Pasta acts as the canvas, soaking up all the sauce and holding the dish together. Every ingredient has a role, and together they create a balanced, flavorful meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover the dish and stir halfway through to avoid drying it out. This pasta can also be frozen for up to two months, though the sauce may separate slightly. For best results, reheat from frozen directly in a skillet with a bit of cream.

Common Variations to Try

This dish is highly adaptable. Swap the chicken for shrimp, salmon, or even crispy bacon for a different protein profile. Vegetarians can skip the meat entirely and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. For a lighter sauce, substitute half the cream with milk or use Greek yogurt. Love spice? Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat. You can also experiment with cheeses—try Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a touch of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Pairing Recommendations

This creamy chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad on the side, dressed with lemon and olive oil. Garlic bread is a natural choice, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. For drinks, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creaminess, while sparkling water with lemon provides a refreshing non-alcoholic option. If you’d like to make the meal more indulgent, finish with a light dessert like fruit sorbet or panna cotta.

Health Benefits

Despite being creamy and comforting, this dish offers a good balance of nutrients. Chicken breast provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and energy. Broccoli and bell pepper deliver vitamins C, A, and antioxidants that support immunity and skin health. Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium, supporting bone strength, while the pasta contributes complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. With vegetables, protein, and carbs all in one dish, this meal is a wholesome choice when eaten in moderation.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken pasta with vegetables and Parmesan is more than just a meal—it’s comfort on a plate. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet flavorful and impressive enough to serve to guests. With its combination of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to pasta, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining friends, or simply craving something delicious and satisfying, this dish will always deliver.