If you are craving a comforting yet fresh pasta dish that feels like a warm hug, then you definitely need to try this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe. It brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne all coated in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce. The balance of flavors and textures is spot on, making it a reliable weeknight dinner that everyone will love. This recipe is my go-to when I want something hearty but still packed with good-for-you greens and protein.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe starts with a handful of simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays its part: the pasta provides the base, the broccoli adds a pop of vibrant color and crunch, and the chicken delivers satisfying heartiness. Plus, the creamy sauce made with Parmesan and cream creates that irresistible silky finish.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Choose penne for its ridges that hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli offers crunch and bright green color, boosting both texture and nutrition.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing chicken and garlic, adding subtle richness.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced: Tender chicken breast is mild-flavored and cooks quickly for a protein-packed punch.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic gives depth and a fragrant warmth that elevates the entire dish.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The star of the creamy sauce, delivering indulgence and smoothness.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds sharpness and umami, enhancing every bite.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs brings an aromatic complexity with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Just a touch to gently warm up the flavors with a hint of smokiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring all the flavors into harmony.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a bright herbal note at the finish.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets so they soften but still retain their crispness and vibrant green hue. This step ensures the broccoli is perfectly tender when mixed into the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning it with salt, pepper, paprika, and half the Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step seals in the juices and builds a nice crust that adds texture to the dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Build the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the chicken in the skillet. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant but not burnt. Then pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer so it thickens slightly, coating every bit of chicken.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce
Drain the penne and broccoli once cooked, reserving about half a cup of pasta water. Add the pasta and broccoli directly into the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water little by little if you want to loosen the sauce. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan until it melts and blends perfectly, making the sauce luxuriously thick and silky.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Give the dish a final taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh, herbaceous finish. At this point, the dish is ready to serve piping hot and be savored.
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brings a lovely color contrast but also adds a subtle freshness that brightens each bite of this rich dish. For an extra cheesy twist, freshly grated Parmesan right at the table is a delightful option. You could also add a few red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe shines as a main course, so keep side dishes light and simple. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess beautifully. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette works wonderfully to mop up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For something special, serve this pasta dish in individual shallow bowls garnished with a basil leaf or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil. You can also bake it briefly with some extra cheese on top to create a bubbly golden crust that changes the texture dynamic delightfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta might absorb some sauce over time, so it’s best to store it separately or stir in a splash of cream or milk when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Freeze in portion-sized containers with as much air removed as possible. To prevent the broccoli from becoming too soft, you may want to slightly undercook it before freezing or freeze the broccoli separately if you prefer it crisper.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little bit of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to ensure even heating without curdling the sauce. This way, your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe stays luscious and fresh tasting.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully thanks to its shape and texture, you can swap it for rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed and remember the sauce consistency might vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cook it according to package directions, and you’ll still get a delicious Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe that’s safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Using chicken thighs is a great option if you prefer meat that’s a bit more flavorful and tender. Just dice and cook them in the same way, making sure they are cooked through. The sauce will still be just as creamy and delicious.
How can I make the sauce lighter?
If you want a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. The sauce won’t be as thick or rich but maintaining the cheese and seasoning balance will keep it tasty and satisfying.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra flavors and textures. Just sauté them with the chicken or steam them alongside the broccoli for a colorful, veggie-packed meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish like this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe that combines ease, nutrition, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it hits all the right notes — creamy, comforting, with just the right amount of fresh brightness. I hope you’ll love making it as much as I do and that it becomes one of your favorite weeknight wins too!
Print
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a comforting and delicious pasta dish combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and penne pasta all enveloped in a rich and velvety Parmesan cream sauce. This quick 30-minute meal is perfect for weeknight dinners and garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Steam the Broccoli: In the last 3-4 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta to steam lightly. Drain broccoli together with the pasta.
- Sauté Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to medium, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheese and Broccoli: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add drained broccoli florets to the skillet and gently toss to coat.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and mixed with chicken and broccoli.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream.
- You can add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- This dish can be made gluten-free by opting for gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
