Nothing beats the comforting goodness of pasta, especially when it’s wrapped up in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with vibrant pesto and tender chicken. This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Rotini is a perfect weeknight dinner that brings together bright green broccoli, juicy chicken breast, and al dente rotini pasta in a silky, cheesy sauce. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Rotini truly special is its balance of creamy richness and fresh, herby notes from the pesto. The rotini pasta’s spiral shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated with that irresistible blend of garlic, Parmesan, and pesto flavor. Plus, the addition of broccoli adds a welcome crunch and a nutritious boost, turning this indulgent dish into a well-rounded meal. Unlike heavier cream sauces, the pesto lightens the creaminess, making it feel vibrant instead of overly rich.

Ingredient Breakdown

12 oz rotini pasta: The perfect pasta shape to trap the creamy sauce and bits of chicken and broccoli.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Tender, lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the flavors.
2 cups broccoli florets: Adds texture, color, and a healthy dose of vitamins to the dish.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky base for the sauce.
1/2 cup pesto: Brings the fresh, herbaceous, garlicky punch that defines this dish.
2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic to golden perfection.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a mild spicy kick.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Enhances the sauce with a sharp, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Before You Start: Equipment

Large pot: For boiling the rotini pasta.
Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the chicken, broccoli, and sauce.
Colander: For draining the pasta and broccoli.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring everything together without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient portions.
Knife and cutting board: For dicing the chicken and chopping broccoli if needed.

Stepwise Method: Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Rotini

Step 1: Cook the Rotini and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to blanch them. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, then set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the same skillet, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the pesto and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Add the cooked chicken, rotini, and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat evenly with the creamy pesto sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve the Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Rotini immediately while it’s warm and creamy. For an extra touch, sprinkle with more Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream blend for a dairy-free alternative.
Use whole wheat or chickpea rotini to increase fiber and protein content.
Lighten the sauce by using half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or spinach for more nutrients and color.
Reduce the Parmesan slightly to lower sodium but keep the flavor balance.

Method to the Madness

This recipe is all about layering flavor and timing your steps for maximum taste and texture. First, you want to get the pasta and broccoli cooked just right — tender but still with a little bite. Then, the chicken should be seared until golden to lock in moisture and flavor. The garlic is your aromatic base, gently softened before the cream and pesto join the party.

Once the sauce starts to thicken, the magic happens when you toss everything together. The rotini’s spirals hold onto the creamy pesto sauce like little flavor pockets, while the tender chicken and crisp broccoli add dimension. The Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, providing that umami punch that makes this dish so crave-worthy.

If you want to elevate this dinner, check out Creamy White Pesto Chicken Pasta for another creamy pasta option or try the Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Halves for a stuffed chicken twist. Both recipes share that same fresh pesto goodness you’ll find here.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Leftovers of this Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Rotini store beautifully. Transfer any uneaten portions to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the silky texture of the sauce.

This dish also freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that the broccoli may soften further during freezing, so if you prefer crunchier veggies, consider adding fresh broccoli when reheating.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more fat and richness, making the dish even juicier. Just be sure to cut the thighs into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Is pesto safe to use if I can’t find it fresh?

Yes! Store-bought pesto works perfectly here. Look for a high-quality brand with simple ingredients like basil, olive oil, pine nuts, and Parmesan. You can also make your own at home if you have basil on hand.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add extra broccoli or other veggies like mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also add plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for added texture.

What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from separating?

Simmer the sauce gently on medium or low heat and avoid boiling it vigorously. Adding the Parmesan cheese slowly and stirring constantly helps emulsify the sauce and keep it creamy.

Serve with These

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Stuffed Shells – for another hearty chicken and broccoli pasta dish, perfect for a comforting meal.
Creamy White Pesto Chicken Pasta – if you want to try a lighter pesto sauce alternative that’s just as creamy.
Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Halves – a great side or main course that pairs beautifully with this pasta.
Simple garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal.

Ready, Set, Cook

This Creamy Pesto Chicken and Broccoli Rotini is your go-to recipe when you want a fuss-free meal that feels indulgent and fresh all at once. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for busy nights or casual dinners. The creamy, herby sauce clings to every bite, balanced by tender chicken and crisp broccoli, creating a dish that’s pure comfort food without the heaviness. So grab your skillet, boil that pasta, and get ready to enjoy a creamy, flavorful plate that everyone at the table will love.

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