Chicken Broccoli Ziti

Published on: February 9, 2026

Are you in the mood for a comforting and hearty meal? This Chicken Broccoli Ziti recipe is just what you need to warm your soul. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce, it’s a complete dish that promises to satisfy every appetite. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious meal!

Time Breakdown

Preparing your Chicken Broccoli Ziti can be quick and easy. Here’s a simple time breakdown for your meal prep:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients List for Chicken Broccoli Ziti

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1×1-inch pieces)
10 ounces ziti pasta
1 bunch broccoli (cut into florets)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

How To Make Chicken Broccoli Ziti Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

Cut the chicken breasts into 1×1-inch cubes and set aside. Cut a bunch of broccoli into florets and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ziti

Bring a large pot with water to a boil. Transfer 10 oz of ziti pasta and cook according to the instructions until al-dente.

Step 3: Add Broccoli

When the pasta is almost cooked, add broccoli florets into the cooking pasta and cook for 3-4 minutes. When done, drain all the water.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, preheat a large pan over medium/high heat and add 2 tbsp of olive oil. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through. Then scoop all the cooked chicken out of the pan onto a plate and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, melt 3 tbsp of butter. Add 3 tbsp of all-purpose flour and whisk until well combined for about 1 minute.

Step 6: Add Liquids For Sauce

Add 1 ½ cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, then whisk again until the butter/flour mixture is dissolved.

Step 7: Season the Sauce

Add the seasoning (1 tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp dried oregano, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes). Whisk and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 7-10 minutes.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Then add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and whisk again until well combined. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli, and toss everything well, so everything is coated with the sauce.

Step 9: Serve

Serve and enjoy!

Chicken Broccoli Ziti

4 Reasons Why You’ll Love Chicken Broccoli Ziti

Easy to Make: This Chicken Broccoli Ziti recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for beginner cooks.
Flavorful: The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce is simply delightful.
Comfort Food: This dish brings a sense of warmth and comfort, ideal for cozy family dinners.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a well-rounded meal that everyone can enjoy.

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips About Chicken Broccoli Ziti

Seasoning the Chicken: Don’t skip seasoning the chicken well to enhance the flavor of the dish.
Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture to this recipe. Frozen can be used but will alter the dish slightly.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure the ziti is cooked al dente to maintain a perfect texture in the final dish.
Creamy Sauce Consistency: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a little longer after adding the cheese.
Customize It: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for more variety.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Broccoli Ziti

Serve your Chicken Broccoli Ziti with garlic bread or a fresh side salad to complete your meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top can elevate the flavors even further. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a delightful dining experience.

How To Storage Chicken Broccoli Ziti

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheat Safely: When reheating, do so in the microwave or oven until heated through completely.
Add Moisture: If the pasta appears dry after storage, add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Separate Components: For best results, consider storing the chicken, pasta, and sauce separately if you plan on reheating.

Tips For Success

Prep Ingredients First: Having everything prepared before you start cooking will make the process smoother.
Watch the Heat: Cook on medium heat, especially while making the sauce, to prevent burning.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking to suit your taste.
Garnish: A garnish of fresh parsley or basil can add a pop of color and flavor to the dish.

Flavor Variations

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Ziti: Add more types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for an extra cheesy experience.
Spicy Ziti: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for more heat.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fresher taste.
Garden Veggie Variation: Toss in additional vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or carrots for more crunch and nutrition.

FAQs About Chicken Broccoli Ziti

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute ziti with other types of pasta, like rotini or penne.
Is there a gluten-free option available?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with chickpeas or another protein source and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I serve with Chicken Broccoli Ziti?
Garlic bread, side salads, or steamed vegetables are great complements to this dish.

Closing Notes

Chicken Broccoli Ziti is a satisfying and nourishing meal that’s easy to whip up any night of the week. Its creamy sauce and colorful veggies sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to hit the spot. Give this hearty dish a try, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family for them to enjoy as well. Happy cooking!