There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne. This dish brings together tender penne pasta, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but easy to make. I remember serving this dish on a cozy family night, and it instantly became a favorite. The creamy sauce, seasoned just right, made it feel like restaurant-quality comfort food, yet it came together effortlessly in my kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
This recipe checks all the boxes for a perfect meal:
- Easy to make: Simple steps and only 30 minutes from prep to plate.
- Family-friendly: The creamy, cheesy sauce is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Balanced and nutritious: Loaded with protein-packed chicken and nutrient-rich broccoli.
Ingredients Notes for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Each ingredient in this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne works together to create a delicious, satisfying dish:
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape for holding creamy sauces.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and garlic.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Provides lean protein; dice for even cooking.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the sauce with aromatic, savory flavor.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and a salty, nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to complement the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional): A bright garnish for freshness and color.
Substitutions:
- Swap penne for rigatoni, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta shape.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Kitchen Equipment Needed for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
- Large pot for boiling pasta and broccoli.
- Colander for draining.
- Large skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
- Knife and cutting board for chopping chicken, broccoli, and parsley.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. Drain everything together and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Parmesan and Seasonings
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy sauce. Add the drained penne pasta, stirring until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
6. Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this creamy, satisfying dish with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve fresh: This pasta is best enjoyed right after cooking, while the sauce is creamy and hot.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
- Not freezer-friendly: The cream sauce can separate when frozen, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.
Variations and Substitutions
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is versatile and easy to customize:
- Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the chicken for an earthy flavor.
- Go vegetarian: Skip the chicken and double the broccoli or add other veggies like spinach or peas.
- Try different cheeses: Replace Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
Helpful Notes
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Adding it in the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking ensures it stays bright and tender-crisp.
- Reserve pasta water: Save 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining in case the sauce needs thinning.
- Cut chicken evenly: Dice the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Gordon Ramsay: “Always season each layer of your dish to build depth of flavor.”
- Giada De Laurentiis: “Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese—it melts better and tastes fresher than pre-grated options.”
- Nigella Lawson: “Add a knob of butter to the sauce at the end for extra richness.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but blanch it before adding to the pasta to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
Q2: How can I make this dish lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
The dish tastes best fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and broccoli in advance, then quickly assemble everything when ready to serve.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would work well in this dish.
Q5: How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?
Cook the sauce over low heat and avoid boiling the cream to keep it smooth and silky.
Conclusion
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a quick and satisfying dinner that combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli and chicken with the indulgent creaminess of Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this delicious pasta dish today!
