This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce in a quick one-pot meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe caters to both busy families and gourmet enthusiasts alike. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a favorite for those seeking comfort food with a delicious twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time enjoying your meal with family or friends.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy Parmesan sauce combined with fresh ingredients makes every bite irresistible.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli, it’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this creamy dish, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Perfect for boiling pasta quickly while providing ample space for cooking.
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce without transferring to another dish.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 2 cups penne pasta
For the Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (optional)
How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
1. Once hot, add the chicken pieces.
2. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add chicken broth.
1. Bring it to a simmer.
2. Add broccoli florets and cover.
3. Steam until tender (about 4-5 minutes).
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet after removing broccoli:
1. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
2. Pour in heavy cream and stir well.
3. Gradually mix in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
Add the drained penne pasta, sautéed chicken, and steamed broccoli into the skillet with the creamy sauce.
1. Toss everything together until well coated.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish your dish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne!
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Serving Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne can elevate your dining experience. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, here are some delightful suggestions to present this dish beautifully.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing complement the richness of the penne.
- Garden Salad – A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and color to your meal.
Add Some Bread
- Garlic Bread – Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter make for perfect dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls can soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Garnish Creatively
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Grated Parmesan – Additional cheese enhances flavor and makes the dish look appealing.
Serve with Wine
- White Wine – A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs nicely, balancing the creaminess with acidity.
- Sparkling Water – For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.
How to Perfect Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Perfecting your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is easy with these helpful tips that ensure a delicious meal every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh broccoli and good-quality chicken enhance flavors significantly.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente – This ensures the pasta retains its texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you cook! Feel free to add more salt or pepper according to your liking.
- Thicken Sauce If Needed – If your sauce is too thin, simmer it longer or add more Parmesan cheese for thickness.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Complementing your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne with the right side dishes can create an even more satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings flavor and nutrition.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs complements the dish without overshadowing it.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil offers a refreshing contrast.
- Caprese Salad – Slices of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide vibrant colors.
- Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the pasta dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience making Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Use Italian herbs, salt, and pepper generously.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking penne too long makes it mushy. Always check for al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes of boiling.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Using wilted broccoli or old chicken can ruin your dish. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Ignoring the sauce consistency: A watery sauce will not cling well to the pasta. Ensure you simmer until it thickens to achieve a creamy texture.
- Neglecting to toss ingredients: Simply layering chicken and broccoli on top of pasta without mixing can lead to uneven distribution of flavors. Toss everything together thoroughly before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about making Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne.
How do I make my Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne more flavorful?
To boost flavor, consider adding extra spices like chili flakes or fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or carrots based on your preference.
Is Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne a healthy meal option?
Yes! This dish incorporates lean protein from chicken and nutritious broccoli, making it a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
While we recommend penne for its ability to hold sauce well, other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini can also be used effectively.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is an easy-to-make dish that offers comfort and satisfaction for any dinner occasion. Its creamy Parmesan sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste!
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a delightful, one-pot dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. This recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking just 35 minutes—but also offers a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is an effortless way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot, add penne pasta, and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté chicken pieces seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until browned (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli florets, cover, and steam until tender (4-5 minutes).
- Sauté minced garlic in the skillet until fragrant (30 seconds), then stir in heavy cream and gradually mix in Parmesan until smooth.
- Combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, and steamed broccoli in the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 667mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
