Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe

If you’re searching for a meal that’s equal parts comforting, creamy, and packed with veggies and protein, Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne absolutely delivers. This dish brings you tender pieces of chicken, vibrant fresh broccoli, and al dente penne, all cloaked in a luxuriously rich Parmesan cream sauce. Each forkful balances irresistible flavors and textures, making this pasta a family favorite that’s surprisingly simple to whip up on a busy weeknight or for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is that each ingredient works its magic to create big flavor without fuss. These staples combine to craft a pasta dish that’s delightfully creamy, loaded with fresh flavor, and visually stunning on your plate.

• Penne Pasta: Holds the creamy sauce in its ridges, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
• Olive Oil: Gives a silky base for sautéing the chicken and helps infuse subtle richness.
• Chicken Breasts: Lean, juicy protein that soaks up all those delicious Italian seasonings.
• Broccoli Florets: Add vibrant green color, a mild sweetness, and essential crunch.
• Garlic: Minced fresh for an aromatic foundation and irresistible depth.
• Heavy Cream: Lends the decadent, creamy texture that makes this pasta so inviting.
• Chicken Broth: Loosens the sauce just enough while adding savory undertones.
• Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce, bringing nutty, salty complexity and glossy finish.
• Italian Seasoning: An aromatic blend that ties the whole dish together with classic herbs.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for brightening and rounding out all the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Sprinkled just before serving for a burst of freshness and color.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and drop in the penne pasta. Cook it to al dente perfection, following the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside. This simple step ensures your pasta retains a satisfying bite and doesn’t get mushy in the sauce later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces and let them sizzle as you sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed at first to develop some golden-brown color, then stir until fully cooked and juicy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it handy—you’ll want every succulent morsel in your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

Pour the chicken broth into your skillet (no need to clean it; those flavor-packed bits on the bottom are gold!). Add the broccoli florets, cover, and let them steam for a few minutes. You want your broccoli bright green and tender, not mushy, so check it with a fork after about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Push the steamed broccoli to one side, melt in a touch more olive oil if needed, and toss in the minced garlic. As the garlic becomes fragrant, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan. Stir constantly to blend everything into a smooth, velvety sauce. It will thicken beautifully as it gently simmers—a crucial moment for that signature creamy finish in your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Return the cooked penne and chicken to the skillet, then add the steamed broccoli. Use tongs or a big spoon to toss everything in the creamy Parmesan sauce, making sure every piece is evenly coated. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed, and let it all gently warm through for a few minutes so the flavors can come together in pasta perfection.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and a delicate herbaceous note, making your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne look as inviting as it tastes. Extra Parmesan cheese is always welcome for those who crave an even cheesier bite. For a final flourish, try a tiny drizzle of good olive oil or a crack of black pepper to brighten up each serving.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with warm, crusty garlic bread for mopping up every last drop of sauce. A simple green salad tossed with lemony vinaigrette is the perfect refreshing counterpoint, keeping the meal light and balanced. Roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus also pair beautifully with the richness of Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your penne family-style in a large, shallow bowl, letting everyone dig in together, or plate it individually for a dinner-party-worthy look. For a special touch, swirl the pasta into little nests and tuck the chicken and broccoli in artfully. Garnish with scatterings of chopped parsley or extra Parmesan to make the dish pop visually and impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne to an airtight container once it’s cooled. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen a bit as it sits, so next-day leftovers taste just as delightful for a quick lunch or dinner.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this pasta, portion it into individual containers for the best results. While the sauce might separate slightly when reheated, a quick stir and a splash of cream will bring back its luscious texture. Freeze for up to one month for those moments when you need wholesome comfort in a hurry.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta before microwaving or warming it gently on the stovetop. Stir to refresh the sauce and restore its creamy consistency. Avoid overheating, which can cause the sauce to break; just enough warmth to make it steamy and inviting is perfect.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?

Absolutely! While penne is traditional, feel free to swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle if that’s what you have on hand. Just cook the pasta to al dente, and your dish will turn out wonderful.

Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

You sure can. Swap some or all of the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. Using a light sprinkling of Parmesan instead of a generous handful also trims a bit of richness while still delivering fantastic flavor.

What other vegetables work in this recipe?

While broccoli is classic, you can stir in peas, baby spinach, or even roasted bell peppers for extra color and variety. Carrots cut into thin coins or asparagus tips add new dimensions to your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.

Can I make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne ahead for meal prep?

Definitely! Make a batch, let it cool, and divide into containers. It’s a real timesaver for lunches or grab-and-go dinners throughout the week. Just remember to keep garnishes separate and add them fresh when serving.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra broccoli, or toss in sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a protein boost and just as much deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that brings both comfort and excitement to the table, make room for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne in your repertoire. It’s a dish meant to be shared and enjoyed, whether on a busy weeknight or when you’re entertaining friends. Gather your ingredients and give it a try—you just might find yourself coming back to this pasta again and again!

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