If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that ticks every box — creamy, comforting, and packed with both protein and veggies — Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is about to become your new go-to. This dish brings together tender penne pasta, juicy pieces of chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a lusciously cheesy sauce, all in just about half an hour. It’s one of those meals that manages to be both cozy and fresh, making it perfect for everything from family dinners to impressing friends with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is refreshingly simple, but each element plays an important role. From the al dente pasta to the vibrant broccoli and the rich, cheesy sauce, every item helps create that irresistible flavor and texture combination you’ll crave again and again.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Penne holds the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying and hearty.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a pop of color and freshness, plus a bit of crunch to balance the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and infusing a subtle richness without overpowering the dish.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces): Lean, tender protein that cooks up quickly and soaks up all the flavors of the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings an aromatic depth and savory punch to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the finished dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base for the sauce, keeping it light yet savory.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The key to that luscious, silky sauce you’ll want to mop up with every bite.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers salty, nutty complexity and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties everything together with classic Italian flair.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Finishes the sauce with a glossy finish and a touch of extra indulgence.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package directions. During the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets so they become just tender and vibrantly green. Drain everything together and set it aside; this timing ensures your broccoli stays crisp and colorful, not mushy.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, then season with salt and pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a lovely golden crust, then stir and continue cooking until fully cooked through and juicy, about 6 to 8 minutes in total.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Build the Sauce
Once your chicken is cooked, sprinkle in the minced garlic and stir for about a minute, just until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, gently scraping any browned bits from the skillet (they’re flavor gold!). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and butter. Let it bubble away for 3 to 5 minutes, so the sauce thickens up and all those flavors meld together.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce
Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with your creamy sauce and chicken. Toss everything thoroughly to coat each piece in that dreamy sauce. The penne soaks up the flavor, while the broccoli and chicken keep things fresh and hearty. Serve warm, and don’t be shy about adding a little extra Parmesan on top.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Garnishes
To really make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne shine, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan over each bowl and finish with a shower of freshly cracked black pepper. If you want a pop of color, a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil adds both beauty and a burst of freshness.
Side Dishes
This dish is already a complete meal, but I love serving it with a simple green salad dressed with lemony vinaigrette or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every bit of sauce. Roasted garlic bread is also a winner if you’re in the mood for ultimate comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne in individual ramekins or gratin dishes, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and broiled for a bubbly, golden finish. Or, pile it high in a large serving bowl and garnish with lemon zest for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly as it chills, but the flavors will stay rich and satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions for later, let the pasta cool completely first. Transfer to freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. The texture of the sauce may change a bit upon thawing, but a gentle reheat will bring it back together.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally while heating to ensure even warmth and creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne is classic for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
Yes! For a lighter take, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use reduced-fat cream. You can also cut back a bit on the cheese, though the sauce will be less thick and rich.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken for maximum flavor?
Letting the chicken pieces get a golden sear in the skillet before adding the sauce is the key. Avoid crowding the pan and don’t stir too often — this helps develop those tasty browned bits that add so much flavor to Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra broccoli or toss in mushrooms, peas, or asparagus for more veggie goodness.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat at a gentle simmer once you add the cream and cheese, and avoid boiling the sauce vigorously. Stirring in the cheese gradually and off the heat can also help maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne as I am to share it! This dish is pure comfort with a wholesome twist, and it’s sure to turn any dinner into a special occasion. Give it a try — your taste buds (and anyone lucky enough to join you at the table) will thank you!
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Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for an easy yet elegant weeknight dinner, it combines healthy vegetables with protein and indulgent flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Protein and Seasonings
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 10-12 minutes, adding the broccoli florets during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Create Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and butter. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta and vegetables with the creamy sauce. Serve warm, optionally garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce fat content.
- Leftover or rotisserie chicken can be used to save time.
- Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a bit of spice.
- Freshly grated Parmesan yields best flavor compared to pre-grated options.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
