Indulgent Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe You'll Love

As the aroma of sautéed garlic fills my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the comforting anticipation of making Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne tonight. This dish has become my go-to for busy evenings when I crave something that feels indulgent yet wholesome. The creamy sauce envelops tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, making it not only a delightful one-pot meal but also a colorful addition that turns any weeknight dinner into a joyful experience. Plus, with a prep time of just 30 minutes, it's perfect for anyone looking to swap fast food for home-cooked goodness. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a staple in your household. So, are you ready to elevate your pasta game and impress your loved ones with this creamy delight?

Why will you crave this pasta?

Creamy, dream-worthy flavor: The luscious sauce blends perfectly with tender chicken and fresh broccoli, ensuring every bite is indulgent and satisfying.

30-minute meal: Say goodbye to fast food! This quick recipe is perfect for busy evenings, letting you savor home-cooked goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.

One-pot wonder: Simplify your cleanup! All the ingredients come together in one pot, making it not just delicious but also practical for any weeknight dinner.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether it's a family meal or a gathering, this dish is sure to impress! Everyone loves a creamy pasta, especially one that's packed with healthy greens.

Versatile base: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or protein. Try pairing it with side salads or crusty bread for a complete meal. For more pasta inspiration, check out our delicious quick pasta dishes.

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Ingredients

For the Pasta

• Penne pasta – This is the perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks.

For the Chicken

• Boneless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy, perfect for sautéing and absorbing flavors.
• Olive oil – Use for searing the chicken to get a lovely golden crust.

For the Sauce

• Heavy cream – Creates that dreamy creamy texture that envelops the pasta.
• Garlic – Freshly minced for fragrant depth; try adding more if you love garlic!
• Chicken broth – Adds richness to the sauce and keeps it moist.
• Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated will melt beautifully into the sauce, enhancing the cheesy flavor.
• Black pepper – A dash adds just the right amount of spice to this creamy dish.

For the Broccoli

• Fresh broccoli florets – These vibrant greens not only add color but also a nutritious crunch.
• Lemon juice – A splash brightens the entire dish, balancing the creaminess.

Don't miss out on creating a homemade meal to savor like this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside to keep warm.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. While it warms, season 1 pound of boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden-brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add in the fresh broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they become bright green and tender-crisp. Make sure to scrape up any flavorful brown bits from the chicken. This will enhance the overall flavor of your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the broccoli and garlic. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Bring to a gentle bubble, then gradually add in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until it melts smoothly, creating a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet along with the sliced chicken pieces. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the luscious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired creaminess.

Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze in some fresh lemon juice, stirring through the pasta to brighten up the flavors. Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or lemon wedges for an added zing.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook and season the chicken as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the sauce, prepare it without the Parmesan cheese and cool it before transferring it to a separate container. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet, stir in the cheese until melted, and then add the cooked penne and broccoli, tossing everything together. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze!

Expert Tips for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

• Perfect Pasta Timing: Always cook penne until al dente; this helps prevent mushy pasta when it's combined with the creamy sauce later.

• Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest before slicing. This maintains its juices and enhances the flavor of your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.

• Sauté Wisely: When sautéing garlic, don’t let it brown too much; burnt garlic can make the dish taste bitter.

• Adjust Creaminess: If the sauce thickens too much, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency for the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.

• Add Flavor: A pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the sauce and give your dish a subtle kick without overpowering the creamy flavors.

Storage Tips for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream to restore creaminess.

Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, ensuring they're well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, to ensure even heating without drying out the sauce.

Serving Tip: Freshen up leftovers by adding a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving!

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun and flavorful twists!

• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms to keep it hearty and plant-based.
  Make it colorful by adding bell peppers or zucchini for an extra crunch and flavor explosion.

• Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat penne for a healthier alternative that brings in more fiber.
  It adds a lovely nuttiness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.

• Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a zesty heat that tantalizes your taste buds.
  This variation is perfect for spice lovers looking to turn up the flavor!

• Cheesy Delight: Boost the cheesiness by adding mozzarella or gouda along with Parmesan for a richer flavor.
  The melted cheese creates an irresistible creaminess that you won’t want to miss!

• Lemon Herb: Infuse fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fragrant twist, and add extra lemon juice for brightness.
  This combination will awaken your dish, bringing freshness to every forkful.

• Creamy and Smoky: Stir in some smoked paprika or add crispy bacon for a delicious smoky flavor.
  Each bite will be a delightful surprise, taking your creamy penne to new heights!

• Nut-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version while keeping it rich and tasty.
  Its subtle sweetness will balance beautifully with the other savory ingredients.

• Protein-Packed: Add cooked shrimp or tofu for an extra boost of protein that makes the dish even more filling.
  This is perfect for those looking to satisfy their hunger while enjoying a creamy delight!

Explore these variations to discover new favorites; each twist makes the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne a little different, yet oh-so-delicious! For more ideas, try our delectable quick pasta dishes.

What to Serve with Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that complement the creamy richness of this dish.

• Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and buttery flavor of garlic bread create a perfect contrast to the creamy sauce, making every bite even more enjoyable.

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing add a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the penne while adding a burst of flavor.

• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears offer a delicate texture and earthy depth that harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the creamy penne.

• Roasted Veggies: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, providing a colorful and flavorful addition to the meal.

• Lemon Sorbet: A light dessert with a zesty kick cleanses the palate after the rich pasta, leaving your taste buds refreshed and ready for more.

• Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the dining experience, with its bright acidity complementing the creamy richness of the dish.

Let these pairings transform your creamy broccoli and chicken penne into a satisfying and memorable meal!

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs

What type of broccoli is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli florets are ideal for this dish. Look for bright green florets without dark spots or wilting. They should feel firm to the touch, ensuring you have that lovely crunch in every bite.

How long can I store leftover Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?
You can store your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to reheat, just pop it in a skillet or microwave. I recommend adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore the creamy consistency!

Can I freeze Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?
Yes, you can freeze this delightful pasta dish! For the best outcome, cool it completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Be sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat.

What if the sauce is too thick?
To fix a thick sauce, start by gradually adding some of the reserved pasta water—just a little at a time—until you reach your desired creaminess. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s challenging to take it away once it’s mixed in.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
When it comes to allergies, if you're cooking for someone with dairy sensitivities, consider substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. For gluten-free eaters, the penne can easily be swapped for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking times since they can vary!

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Very! This recipe is wonderfully versatile; you can add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or even peas! Sauté them along with the broccoli to infuse more flavor. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times so everything stays tender yet crisp.