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
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.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds depth and enhances the flavor profile.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Lends a nutty, salty kick to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs for a subtle earthy undertone.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
- ¼ 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
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.