Creamy Chicken, Broccoli & Snowfall Pasta

Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken, Broccoli & Snowfall Pasta Recipe

• The snowflake pasta shape adds fun and charm — perfect especially in colder seasons.

• A creamy sauce delivers indulgent comfort without being overly complicated.

• With chicken and broccoli combined, it offers both protein and vegetables in one pot.

• It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it great for busy nights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 box snowflake shaped pasta
2 cups broccoli florets (small cut)
2 tablespoons butter
1 lb (about 450 g) chicken breast, diced small
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmigiano‑Reggiano cheese (divided)
Sea salt & black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Meanwhile, season the diced chicken with olive oil, salt and pepper.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until done (about 3‑4 minutes per side). Remove the chicken and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly until fragrant (about 1 minute). Then whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, uncovered, until the sauce thickens (about 2‑3 minutes).

5. Turn off the heat and fold in half of the grated cheese. Then return the cooked chicken to the skillet.

6. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions; add the broccoli during the last minute of cooking. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli.

7. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. If needed, add some of the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce thickness.

8. Serve immediately, topped with the remaining cheese for extra flavour.

Servings and timing

Makes 6 servings.
Total time: approximately 30 minutes.
Active prep time: ~10‑15 minutes; cooking time ~15‑20 minutes.

Variations

• Substitute the chicken breast with diced turkey or even cooked shredded chicken.

• Use different vegetables like steamed spinach, peas or asparagus instead of broccoli.

• Swap heavy cream for half‑and‑half mixed with a tablespoon of flour for a lighter sauce.

• Use grated pecorino romano or cheddar in place of Parmigiano‑Reggiano for a different cheese flavour.

• Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding the cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• To reheat, place the pasta in a saucepan over low heat, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, and stir gently until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between, and adding a little liquid if needed.

• Note: the broccoli may soften during storage and reheating; for best texture, you could cook fresh broccoli and stir in at serving.

FAQs

What kind of pasta shape is “snowfall” pasta?

Snowfall pasta is a seasonal shape that resembles snowflakes and adds a festive touch to meals.

Can I use regular pasta instead of snowflake‑shaped pasta?

Yes — any short pasta like penne, fusilli or farfalle will work if snowflake shapes aren’t available.

Is heavy cream required, or can I use something lighter?

Heavy cream provides the richest texture and flavour, but you can use a lighter dairy option like half‑and‑half or whole milk thickened with a bit of flour or cornstarch.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy and doesn’t overcook?

Dice the chicken into small, uniform pieces so they cook quickly and evenly, and avoid cooking beyond when they are just done and no pink remains. Remove from heat and return to the sauce rather than over‑cooking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and broccoli ahead, but combining everything and reheating works best for flavour and texture.

What can I substitute for Parmigiano‑Reggiano?

You can use other hard Italian cheeses like Pecorino Romano, or even a sharp cheddar for a different but tasty spin.

Can this recipe be made gluten free?

Yes — use a gluten‑free short pasta and ensure the cream and other ingredients are gluten‑free certified.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with a plant‑based chicken alternative or sautéed mushrooms, and proceed with the sauce and pasta.

What should I do if the sauce becomes too thick when reheating?

Add a splash of milk or cream, or some reserved pasta‑cooking water, and stir gently to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess.

Is there a good wine or beverage pairing?

A light‑to‑medium bodied white wine like a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce well. For non‑alcoholic, a sparkling water with lemon works nicely.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken, Broccoli & Snowfall Pasta is a simple yet festive meal that balances comfort and creativity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a family‑friendly dish that delivers both nutrition and cozy satisfaction. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a seasonal gathering, this pasta recipe brings warmth and joy to the table.