Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

October 27, 2024

Imagine tender pieces of chicken and vibrant broccoli florets swirled together with al dente penne pasta, all coated in a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce. This comforting dish combines hearty flavors with a velvety texture that’s hard to resist. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a balanced meal in under 40 minutes—quick, wholesome, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or treating yourself to a delightful dinner, this creamy broccoli and chicken penne will quickly become a favorite. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for entertaining guests!

Ingredients

A bowl of creamy broccoli and chicken penne garnished with parsley, showcasing tender chicken pieces, vibrant broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce.

What You’ll Need

To create this indulgent pasta dish, gather the following ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating a symphony of flavors and textures:

2 cups penne pasta: Perfect for holding the creamy sauce in every bite.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Provides lean protein and a savory base.
2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a pop of freshness and a slightly crunchy texture.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Delivers an aromatic foundation to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the creamy, luxurious sauce.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and enhances the flavor profile.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Lends a nutty, salty kick to the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for a subtle earthy undertone.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of brightness to finish the dish.

Substitutions and Additions

Looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary preferences? This recipe is versatile and customizable:

Swap proteins: Replace chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a different protein option.
Dairy-free alternatives: Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
Add-ins:
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, earthy dimension.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: A touch of tanginess that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Red chili flakes: Sprinkle for a subtle heat that elevates the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

A bowl of creamy broccoli and chicken penne garnished with parsley, showcasing tender chicken pieces, vibrant broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce.

Preparation

Preparation is key to a smooth cooking experience. Here’s how to get started:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt ensures the pasta is flavorful. Add 2 cups of penne and cook until al dente, as per package instructions. Drain and set aside, tossing with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prep the Chicken and Broccoli:
- Dice two chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes the dish easier to eat.
- Wash and cut 2 cups of broccoli florets into small, uniform pieces for quick steaming.
Gather Your Equipment:
- A large pot for boiling pasta.
- A large skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce.
- A cutting board and sharp knife for prep work.

With everything prepped and ready, you’re set to dive into the cooking process. Keep your ingredients and tools within arm’s reach for a stress-free experience.

Cooking the Chicken and Broccoli

Now, let’s bring those ingredients to life with some heat and seasoning.

Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken, seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. The aromatic blend infuses the chicken with warm, herbaceous flavors.
- Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Steam the Broccoli:
- In the same skillet, add ½ cup of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the broccoli florets, cover, and let them steam for 3–4 minutes until tender yet crisp. Steaming the broccoli in the same pan enhances its flavor by absorbing the seasoned broth.

These steps ensure the chicken is juicy and the broccoli retains its vibrant color and texture, setting the stage for the creamy sauce.

Making the Creamy Sauce

Here comes the star of the dish: the silky, Parmesan-infused sauce.

Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should smell aromatic and golden.
Create the Cream Base:
- Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir, letting it heat gently.
- Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce. The cheese adds a nutty richness that balances the cream.
Thicken the Sauce:
- Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken. If the sauce is too thin, add a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 teaspoon each) and whisk until the desired consistency is reached.

Pro Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the cream from separating and the cheese from clumping.

Combining Everything

It’s time to bring it all together for a dish that’s as cohesive in flavor as it is comforting.

Add the cooked chicken and broccoli back into the skillet, letting them soak up the creamy sauce.
Toss in the drained pasta, stirring until everything is evenly coated in the luscious sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or Parmesan if needed.

Every bite should be a perfect blend of creamy sauce, juicy chicken, tender pasta, and vibrant broccoli.

Finishing Touches and Presentation

The final details elevate this dish from a simple dinner to a show-stopping meal.

Garnish for Flair:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Grate extra Parmesan on top for an indulgent finish.
Serve Warm:
- For the best experience, serve the pasta warm in bowls or on plates. To maintain the creamy consistency, avoid letting the dish sit for too long before serving.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve family-style in the skillet for a rustic, inviting look.
- For individual servings, garnish with a sprig of parsley or a lemon wedge on the side.

Serving Suggestions

A bowl of creamy broccoli and chicken penne garnished with parsley, showcasing tender chicken pieces, vibrant broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce.

Occasions and Pairings

This creamy broccoli and chicken penne is perfect for a variety of occasions:

Weeknight Comfort: It’s the ultimate comfort food for a cozy family dinner after a long day. Its rich, creamy sauce and wholesome ingredients make it both satisfying and nourishing.
Potluck Crowd-Pleaser: Easy to prepare and transport, this dish is a hit at potlucks and gatherings. Serve it warm in a casserole dish for easy sharing.
Meal-Prep Champion: This pasta stores and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Pack portions into containers for quick, delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week.

For a complete meal, pair this dish with:

A Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing side of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread or dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.

Presentation Ideas

Presentation is everything when serving this beautiful dish. Here are some ideas to make it shine:

Rustic Charm: Serve the pasta directly from the skillet to emphasize its homemade, comforting appeal.
Elegant Touch: Plate individual servings on white plates or shallow bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for vibrant pops of color.
Family-Style Warmth: Serve in a large dish at the center of the table, encouraging everyone to dig in and share.

These presentation tips will ensure your dish looks just as irresistible as it tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about this creamy broccoli and chicken penne:

Indulgent yet Balanced: The velvety Parmesan sauce is rich and creamy, yet the broccoli adds a burst of freshness and a touch of crunch.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone seeking a fuss-free meal.
Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and whole grains, it’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to be a hit with adults and kids alike. The creamy sauce and mild flavors appeal to even the pickiest eaters.

Whether for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Recipe FAQ

Cooking Tips

Avoid Overcooking Broccoli: Steam the broccoli just until it’s tender-crisp. This keeps it vibrant and prevents it from turning mushy.
Prevent Sauce Curdling: Keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese to avoid separating the sauce.
Season Strategically: Season the chicken during cooking and adjust the seasoning of the sauce at the end for the best balance of flavors.

Troubleshooting

Watery Sauce: Simmer the sauce a little longer to thicken it, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water) for extra thickening.
Sticky Pasta: Toss the pasta with a small amount of olive oil after draining to keep it from sticking together.
Overcooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) without overcooking it.

Serving FAQ

Portion Sizes: This recipe serves 4 generously. For larger gatherings, simply double the ingredients.
Doubling the Recipe: Use a larger skillet to ensure everything combines evenly when doubling the recipe.

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Let the pasta cool completely before freezing to preserve texture.

Reheating and Serving

Reheat on the Stove: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to a skillet and gently reheat the pasta over low heat, stirring to revive its creamy consistency.
Microwave Option: Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Prepping Components: Cook the chicken and broccoli in advance and refrigerate them separately. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in a jar or airtight container.
Assembling Later: When ready to serve, reheat the components and toss them together with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal.

Related Recipes

If you loved this creamy broccoli and chicken penne, you might enjoy these similar recipes:

Conclusion

Creamy broccoli and chicken penne is the epitome of comfort food: simple to prepare, brimming with rich and creamy flavors, and versatile enough for any occasion. The tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and velvety Parmesan sauce come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for guests, this recipe fits the bill.

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Author: Sophia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy broccoli and chicken penne is a one-pot wonder perfect for a quick and wholesome dinner. With a rich Parmesan cream sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, it’s a satisfying and crowd-pleasing dish for all occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Boil penne pasta until al dente; set aside.
Sauté chicken in olive oil, seasoning with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Remove from skillet.
Steam broccoli with chicken broth until tender.
In the same skillet, sauté garlic, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until a smooth sauce forms.
Combine pasta, chicken, and broccoli with the sauce. Toss well.
Garnish with parsley and serve warm.