Rich, hearty, and full of flavor, Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with anticipation. Each bite of tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne is wrapped in a velvety cream sauce, with bright green broccoli adding just the right amount of texture and freshness. This dish delivers comfort food vibes while sneaking in some greens, making it a perfect blend of indulgence and nourishment.
It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner option when you need something satisfying yet easy to put together. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta beautifully, while the broccoli absorbs the savory notes of the chicken and garlic. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this penne pasta dish offers that cozy, home-cooked feeling with minimal fuss.
Ingredients for this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a touch of heat)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved from boiling)
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets so they cook until tender-crisp. Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water. Set everything aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and in the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add the drained pasta and broccoli. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cheese if needed. Serve hot, with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a pinch of black pepper on top.
Storage Instructions
To keep your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne fresh and delicious for later, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure the pasta is cooled completely before sealing.
- Freezer: This dish can be frozen, though the cream sauce might slightly separate when reheated. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Estimated Nutrition
Per Serving (based on 4 servings total):
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. To thicken, you can add a bit of flour or cornstarch.
2. What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work great. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
4. Is it gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use gluten-free penne to make it suitable.
5. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw it first and add it during the last couple of minutes of boiling the pasta.
6. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat medium-low when simmering the cream and avoid boiling it aggressively.
7. Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?
Definitely. Mozzarella or a sharp white cheddar adds great flavor and extra creaminess.
8. Is this good for meal prep?
Very! It reheats well and holds up nicely in the fridge for a few days.
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