Discover how to make the best Chicken Broccoli Ziti Recipe—a quick, creamy, and delicious pasta dish made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and ziti.
What Is Chicken Broccoli Ziti and Why Everyone Loves It
The Chicken Broccoli Ziti Recipe is a classic Italian-American pasta dish combining juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and chewy ziti in a creamy or garlic-butter sauce.
It’s a one-pan chicken broccoli ziti that balances protein, veggies, and carbs—all in one delicious bowl.
What makes it so popular?
- Quick to make: Ready in 30 minutes or less.
- Healthy & satisfying: Packed with lean protein and fiber.
- Customizable: Works with cream, olive oil, or even baked versions.
This creamy chicken broccoli ziti is a go-to weeknight pasta dinner—comforting yet light enough for everyday meals.
Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Ziti
Use this simple ingredient list for perfect flavor and balance:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ziti Pasta | 12 oz (340 g) | Forms the hearty base |
| Boneless Chicken Breast | 2 (sliced thin) | Lean protein source |
| Fresh Broccoli Florets | 3 cups | Adds crunch & nutrients |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Garlic | 3 cloves (minced) | Boosts flavor |
| Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half | 1 cup | Creates creamy texture |
| Parmesan Cheese | ½ cup (grated) | Rich, cheesy flavor |
| Salt & Black Pepper | To taste | Enhances taste |
| Crushed Red Pepper | ¼ tsp (optional) | Adds mild spice |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tsp | Brightens flavor |
| Reserved Pasta Water | ½ cup | Helps sauce cling |
💡 Optional Add-Ins: Mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful baked chicken broccoli ziti twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps for the perfect chicken broccoli ziti recipe:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta & Broccoli Together
Bring salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook 8 minutes. Add broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
2️⃣ Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add chicken breast slices, season with salt & pepper, and cook 5–6 minutes until golden. Set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté 30 seconds. Stir in cream and simmer 3–4 minutes. Add Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice.
4️⃣ Combine Everything
Add back chicken, broccoli, and ziti. Toss well, adding pasta water gradually until sauce coats evenly.
5️⃣ Serve Hot & Enjoy
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and serve this creamy chicken broccoli ziti right away.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Result | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Overcooking pasta | Mushy texture | Cook al dente |
| Skipping pasta water | Dry sauce | Add ½ cup reserved water |
| Adding broccoli too early | Soggy florets | Add last 2 minutes |
| Boiling cream | Sauce curdles | Simmer gently |
| Unseasoned chicken | Bland flavor | Season before & after cooking |
Chef’s Tips & Tasty Variations
- Light Version: Use milk or half-and-half instead of cream for a healthy chicken broccoli pasta.
- Baked Version: Top with mozzarella and broil 5 minutes for bubbly baked chicken broccoli ziti.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
- Make-Ahead Option: Store sauce and pasta separately; mix when reheating.
- One-Pan Hack: Cook everything in a single skillet for faster cleanup.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair your chicken broccoli ziti with:
- Garlic bread or bruschetta for crunch.
- Caesar salad for freshness.
- White wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
- Or simply enjoy solo — it’s a complete one-pan meal!
Nutrition & Health Benefits
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx) | Health Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal | Balanced energy for dinner |
| Protein | 45 g | Supports muscle health |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g | Provides steady energy |
| Fat | 20 g | Adds flavor & satiety |
| Fiber | 6 g | Supports digestion |
| Calcium | 18% DV | From broccoli & cheese |
✅ This chicken broccoli ziti recipe is high-protein, fiber-rich, and family-friendly — great for active lifestyles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1 — Can I use penne instead of ziti?
Yes! Penne or rigatoni both hold sauce well.
Q2 — Can I make this without cream?
Definitely. Use olive oil, garlic, and a splash of pasta water for a light garlic chicken broccoli pasta.
Q3 — How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a spoon of milk or water.
Q4 — Can I freeze it?
Yes — freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on stove.
Q5 — Is this recipe healthy?
Yes — it’s balanced with lean chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and controlled cream. Use milk for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
The Chicken Broccoli Ziti Recipe brings together comfort, nutrition, and simplicity in every bite. It’s creamy, hearty, and endlessly customizable — whether baked, one-pan, or lightened-up.
So next time you need a quick chicken broccoli pasta dinner, skip takeout and whip this up at home—a creamy chicken broccoli ziti that’s sure to impress your family and your taste buds!
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
