There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a creamy pasta dish after a long day, and my Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is just the escape you need. Imagine the vibrant green of fresh broccoli mingling with tender chicken, all enveloped in a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce. It’s like a warm hug on your dinner plate, ready to be shared with loved ones or enjoyed solo.
This recipe not only showcases the beauty of Italian-American cuisine but also fits seamlessly into your busy weeknight routine. In under 40 minutes, you can whip up this wholesome meal that’s sure to impress—even the pickiest eaters at the table. Plus, with its versatility, you can easily adapt it to meet various dietary preferences. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this dish is simple yet bursting with delightful flavors, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Let’s dive in and create some culinary magic together!
Why will you love Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?
Comforting Perfection: This dish combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a creamy Parmesan sauce, creating a warm sensation with every bite.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight but flavor is non-negotiable.
Family-Friendly: With its appealing texture and hearty ingredients, it’s a hit even with picky eaters, making mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re in the mood for a vegan twist or want to add seasonal veggies, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.
Impress Your Guests: Serve this dish at your next gathering, and watch as it becomes a beloved favorite among friends and family.
Simple Preparation: Perfect for all cooking skill levels, the straightforward steps ensure you’ll have a delicious meal without any fuss.✨
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – This main carbohydrate source provides structure; feel free to swap it for fusilli or farfalle.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast – A hearty protein option that makes the dish filling; turkey or tofu work as lighter substitutions.
For the Vegetables
• Broccoli Florets – Packed with vitamins and texture, fresh or frozen broccoli can be used interchangeably.
For the Sauce
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and depth of flavor; substitute with Grana Padano or nutritional yeast for a non-dairy option.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, silky sauce; lighter versions can use half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
• Garlic – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; olive oil is a great dairy-free alternative.
For Seasoning
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for elevating the overall taste; adjust according to your personal preference.
Remember, these essential ingredients make up the fantastic Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, and each brings its own unique character to your dish. Happy cooking! 🍽️
How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
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Prep Ingredients: Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and chop your broccoli into florets. This ensures even cooking and a delightful texture in your dish.
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Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until just al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to keep it ready for the creamy sauce.
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Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center, roughly 7-8 minutes.
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Add Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still bright green.
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Make Sauce: Lower the heat and add minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese; stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Combine: Add the cooked penne to the sauce mixture, stirring gently to coat all the pasta thoroughly in the delicious creamy sauce.
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Season & Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm to enjoy its comforting goodness!
Optional: Garnish with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
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Ingredient Prep: Organize your ingredients before starting. Pre-chopping chicken and broccoli helps streamline the cooking process and ensures everything is ready when you need it.
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Cook Pasta Al Dente: Always boil the penne until just al dente. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce later on, keeping it perfectly textured.
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Gentle Heat for Sauce: When adding cream, keep the heat low to avoid curdling and encourage a silky-smooth consistency in your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.
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Season Wisely: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjusting salt and pepper at the end allows you to enhance the dish without overwhelming the flavors.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly to maintain the creaminess of the sauce, ensuring each bite is just as satisfying.
Storage Tips for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep the pasta and sauce fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess while warming through.
Freshness Reminder: Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming leftovers of your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the chicken and vegetables and cook the pasta up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce (heavy cream and Parmesan combined with garlic) and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped chicken and broccoli, add the sauce, and stir in the pasta until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Feel free to play with your dish and make it truly yours by exploring these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a rich vegan sauce.
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Pasta Twist: Instead of penne, opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or allergen-friendly option that still delivers on taste.
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Protein Swap: Use shrimp or salmon to elevate the dish’s flavors while adding a different kind of protein punch, making it gourmet.
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Extra Veggies: Mix in spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition and add a colorful flair, ensuring each bite is vibrant and full of life.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the sautéed chicken for a zesty touch that will warm up your palate.
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Creamy Texture Boost: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese for extra creaminess that complements the Parmesan beautifully, enriching the overall flavor.
With these variations, your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne can cater to diverse cravings, becoming a versatile masterpiece for every meal!
What to Serve with Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?
Looking to create a well-rounded meal that delights both the eyes and palate?
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch and makes for the perfect vehicle to soak up the creamy sauce. One bite, and you’ll be transported to an Italian bistro!
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly contrasts the richness of the penne. This classic starter makes your dinner feel extra special!
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies—like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers—brings colorful nutrition to your plate and complements the dish’s creaminess.
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Steamed Green Beans: Tender green beans add a fresh touch of color and a pleasing crispness that balances the creamy sauce while contributing vital nutrients.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage like sweet lemonade or iced tea can cleanse the palate between bites, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.
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Tiramisu: For dessert, serve a light tiramisu to end on a sweet note! Its delicate coffee flavor and creamy texture harmonize beautifully with your pasta dish.
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Baked Parmesan Zucchini: This savory side dish provides a cheesy, crispy element that beautifully complements the creamy pasta, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
These delightful pairings will ensure your dinner featuring Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a roaring success!
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli florets for this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne. Fresh broccoli will give you a slightly more vibrant texture and flavor, while frozen broccoli is super convenient and will work in a pinch. Just ensure that if using frozen, you allow it to thaw before adding it to your dish for the best results!
How should I store leftovers of Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?
For sure! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat them on the stovetop on low heat to maintain that creamy texture—adding a little splash of cream or milk can help keep it silky!
Can I freeze Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?
Yes, definitely! To freeze, portion the pasta into airtight containers and label them. This dish can be safely frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little cream or milk to restore that creamy goodness.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very good question! If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit of chicken broth, milk, or cream while gently stirring over low heat. This will help loosen it up without sacrificing the creamy richness of your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne. Just remember to add gradually, so it achieves your desired consistency!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you have any dietary restrictions, this recipe is quite adaptable. For those avoiding dairy, you can substitute the heavy cream with cashew cream and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, if you need a gluten-free option, choosing gluten-free pasta will make this dish accessible for everyone. Always check for any allergies with specific ingredients, especially if you’re cooking for others!
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne: Perfect Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and chop your broccoli into florets.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain it.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, add chicken pieces, and cook until golden and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
- Toss in the broccoli and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Lower the heat, add minced garlic, cook until fragrant, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth.
- Add the cooked penne to the sauce mixture and gently stir to coat the pasta.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, then serve warm.