Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a comforting dish that marries the rich flavors of chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce with perfectly cooked penne pasta. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe while searching for a quick weeknight meal that didn’t compromise on taste. The vibrant green of the broccoli against the creamy sauce and tender chicken makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up after a long day or serve during a cozy family dinner, and it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe is a true weeknight superhero. It’s quick, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish, and requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy families. Budget-conscious cooks will appreciate that the ingredients are not only affordable but also readily available at the local grocery store. And let’s not forget, it’s kid-approved! With its mild flavors and creamy texture, even picky eaters will find something to love.
"I made this for dinner last week, and it was a huge hit with my family! It’s creamy, flavorful, and super easy to prepare. Definitely a keeper!”
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll start by cooking the penne pasta while searing the chicken to golden perfection. Once the chicken is fragrant, it’s all about bringing the flavors together with garlic, broccoli, and a luscious cream sauce. Finally, you’ll combine everything in one skillet for a delicious, cohesive meal. Ready to jump into it?
Gather These Items
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz Penne Pasta
- 2 cups Broccoli Florets
- 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning (optional)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
Substitutions: If you’re out of penne, any similar pasta will work! You could also swap heavy cream for half-and-half if you’re seeking a lighter option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 30 seconds. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook until they’re bright green and tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Lower the heat, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and optional Italian seasoning, mixing until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Return the sliced chicken and cooked penne to the skillet. Toss to combine everything and heat through, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To enhance your meal, consider serving Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne with a light side salad or some crusty garlic bread for dipping. A chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling water with lemon can elevate the experience even further.
How to Store
Leftover Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through—add a splash of cream or a bit of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t skip the resting time for the chicken! This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
- A pinch of lemon zest added to the sauce can brighten the flavors beautifully.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan will give a richer flavor compared to pre-grated versions.
Recipe Variations
Get creative with this dish! You can swap the broccoli for spinach or peas for a different vegetable experience. For a spicy kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with a good-quality yogurt or swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the preparation take?
The entire dish can be prepped and cooked in about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick dinner.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Just store the sauce and pasta separately to maintain the best texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream to suit dietary preferences.
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
A comforting dish that marries chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce with perfectly cooked penne pasta, ideal for a quick weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 8 oz Penne Pasta
- 2 cups Broccoli Florets
- 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning (optional)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, around 30 seconds. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook until they are bright green and tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Lower the heat, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and optional Italian seasoning, mixing until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Return the sliced chicken and cooked penne to the skillet. Toss to combine everything and heat through, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Don’t skip the resting time for the chicken for better juiciness. Adding a pinch of lemon zest can brighten the sauce’s flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg