When you want a cozy dinner that’s both satisfying and lighter on calories, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Pasta hits all the right notes. A creamy sauce wraps around tender pasta, juicy chicken, and crisp broccoli perfect for weeknights.
Better still, it comes together in just 30 minutes! We’ve tweaked classic Alfredo ingredients to reduce fat without sacrificing flavor, making this a guilt-free family favorite. Whether you need quick dinner ideas or kid friendly dinners, this recipe delivers big taste with simple steps.
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Dinner Recipe
Many of us struggle with finding healthy dinner meals that don’t bore the whole family. That’s where this pasta shines. First, it brings bright broccoli and lean protein together for balanced eating.
Second, the lightened sauce avoids heavy cream but keeps all the cheesy goodness. Meanwhile, turkey bacon adds smoky depth without extra grease. Finally, everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Simply put, this supper checks every box.
Quick and Customizable Comfort
Hungry households need flexible recipes. Luckily, you can swap vegetables, change the protein, or adjust seasonings to fit your mood. For instance, try adding spinach instead of broccoli if that’s what’s in your fridge. Need more inspiration? Explore our Salsa Verde Chicken Rice Skillet for another balanced twist on chicken dinners.
Recipe
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 30 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A lightened-up version of creamy Alfredo pasta with chicken, broccoli, and crispy turkey bacon. Ready in 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1–1/2 cups cooked chicken (see note 1)
- 2–1/2 cups uncooked broccoli
- 8 ounces uncooked linguine (not the entire box)
- 1–1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup chicken broth (or chicken stock)
- 1–1/2 cups 1% milk (not skim)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/16 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 2 ounces cream cheese (1/3 reduced-fat, room temperature)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 6 to 8 slices turkey bacon (or regular bacon)
- 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken (see note 1). Chop the chicken into bite-size pieces.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Chop the broccoli into bite-size pieces. Once water is boiling, generously salt the water with 1 teaspoon salt to every 4 cups of water. Add in the linguine and cook according to package directions for al dente. Add the broccoli 2 minutes before the pasta will be done. Drain both together.
- While pasta is boiling, add the bacon to a large dry pan or griddle. Cook and turn strips every 2–3 minutes, adjusting heat as necessary, until bacon is browned and crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Let cool, then chop coarsely.
- If you pan seared your chicken, use the same pan to heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the flour and whisk briskly until a thick paste forms. Cook for about 1 minute over medium heat. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking vigorously until completely smooth.
- Again, very slowly add in milk, whisking constantly. Whisk until mixture is slightly thickened. Add Italian seasoning, chicken bouillon, salt, and pepper. If desired, add in a tiny pinch of nutmeg. Stir in the softened cream cheese and freshly grated Parmesan. Reduce heat to medium low and stir until cream cheese is smooth and Parmesan is melted. Taste and adjust sauce to preference, adding in any additional seasonings to your preference. If the sauce tastes too heavy, add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Add the chicken, pasta, bacon, and broccoli to the Alfredo sauce. Toss with tongs until combined. If desired, add fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Note 1: For cooked chicken, use leftover rotisserie chicken or sauté 1 large chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Optional lemon juice brightens the sauce if it feels too rich.
- Prep Time: 30 min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 570 kcal
- Sugar: 8.2 g
- Sodium: 769.8 mg
- Fat: 22.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 58.8 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Protein: 32.1 g
Ingredients and Substitutions
Readily available ingredients make this dinner a snap. Notably, smart swaps keep the dish nutritious while preserving its rich taste.
Base Components
- Chicken: Use cooked leftover chicken or quickly pan-sear fresh breasts.
- Broccoli: Fresh florets give crunch. Frozen works too—just thaw first.
- Linguine: Whole wheat adds fiber. If preferred, gluten-free pasta works perfectly here.
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1% milk: Keeps the sauce light. Almond milk can sub for lactose-free needs.
- Cream cheese: Reduced-fat softens the calorie load. Vegan cream cheeses are great dairy-free alternatives.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- Turkey bacon: Gives smoky flavor with less fat than traditional bacon. Always cooked until crisp.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Pasta
Follow these simple steps for a flawless meal every time. Quality tools like a large pot and sturdy whisk make a difference.
Step 1: Boil Pasta and Broccoli Together
Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook linguine until al dente, adding chopped broccoli during the last two minutes. Drain together and set aside.
Step 2: Cook Bacon to Crispy Perfection
While pasta boils, place turkey bacon in a dry skillet over medium heat. Flip pieces every few minutes until browned and crisp. Remove onto paper towels, then chop.
Step 3: Build the Lightened Alfredo Sauce
In a large pan, melt olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic, cook until fragrant, then whisk in flour. Cook one minute into a paste. Gradually pour in chicken broth, whisking nonstop. Slowly add milk, whisk until slightly thick. Stir in Italian seasoning, bouillon, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Step 4: Melt Cheeses Into Silky Sauce
Lower heat to medium. Add softened cream cheese and half the Parmesan. Stir until fully melted. Taste and adjust seasonings. For brightness, add lemon juice if desired.
Step 5: Combine Everything and Serve
Add chicken, cooked pasta, broccoli, and bacon to the sauce. Toss gently with tongs to coat. Enjoy hot!
Pro Tips for Success
Avoid common pitfalls with these kitchen-tested secrets for perfect pasta every time.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Adding it just two minutes before draining keeps it crisp-tender.
- Use room temperature cream cheese: This prevents lumps in your sauce.
- Shred Parmesan yourself: Pre-packaged cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Looking for more hearty dishes? Try our satisfying Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for a different but equally delicious meal.
Flavor Variations
Customize this recipe to match your cravings or pantry contents. Here’s how:
Protein Swaps
- Shrimp: Substitute chicken for quick-cooking shrimp.
- Tofu: Bake marinated tofu cubes for a vegetarian spin.
Veggie Boosters
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes for sweet tang.
- Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms before making sauce for earthy notes.
Herb Twists
- Basil: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh basil in summer.
- Red pepper flakes: Sprinkle on top for gentle heat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with simple sides to complete the meal. Try garlic bread for dipping into extra sauce. Alternatively, serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette. Our easy Crock Pot Chicken Pot Roast makes another excellent main for leftovers later in the week.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Leftovers stay fresh in airtight containers for up to four days in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight before warming.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 570 kcal | 22.9 g | 58.8 g | 32.1 g | 3.5 g | 8.2 g | 769.8 mg |
FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute cornstarch for flour in the sauce (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with cold milk before adding).
How can I lower sodium?
Choose low-sodium broth and skip adding extra salt. Also, reduce or omit the bouillon powder.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
Substitute 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder for fresh, but add it when dry spices go in rather than sautéing.
Final Thoughts
With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Pasta proves healthy can be hearty. Whether seeking quick dinner ideas or tasty comfort food remade lighter, this recipe satisfies without compromise. Collect family smiles around the table tonight!
