Imagine tender chunks of juicy chicken and vibrant green broccoli nestled among perfectly cooked penne pasta—all smothered in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This cozy, satisfying dish is everything you want in a comforting dinner: warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s an ideal go-to for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is easy enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve for special occasions.
Ingredients
A bowl of creamy broccoli and chicken penne garnished with fresh parsley, featuring golden chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a velvety cream sauce.
What You’ll Need
Each ingredient adds to the richness, texture, and flavor of this dish. Gather the following:
- 2 cups penne pasta – Great for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps brown the chicken and adds flavor.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces) – Lean protein that builds the base.
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced) – For aromatic depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Forms the luscious, creamy sauce.
- ½ cup chicken broth – Enhances the savory flavor.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – Infuses warm, herby flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) – For a fresh garnish.
Customization Ideas
Want to adapt the recipe? Try these:
Protein swaps:
– Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu.
Dairy-free options:
– Use coconut or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Flavorful add-ins:
– Mushrooms for earthiness
– Sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist
– Red pepper flakes for a kick of heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, then toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Prep the Chicken and Broccoli
Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Rinse and trim broccoli into small florets.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Steam the Broccoli
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the broccoli, cover, and let steam for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove lid and let any excess liquid evaporate.
Make the Cream Sauce
1. Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Create the Base
Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and fully melted.
3. Thicken if Needed
Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken. If it’s too thin, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp water) and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Pro Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent curdling or clumping.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken and broccoli back into the skillet. Then stir in the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan if needed.
Finish and Serve
Garnish Ideas:
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley
- Top with extra Parmesan
- Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness
Serving Tips:
- Serve warm in bowls or plates.
- For a rustic look, serve straight from the skillet.
- For an elegant touch, garnish with parsley or lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken penne fits any occasion:
- Weeknight dinners: Quick and comforting.
- Potlucks and parties: Easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing.
- Meal prep: Reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners.
Perfect pairings:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Warm garlic bread or rolls for dipping
Why You’ll Love It
- Rich and balanced: Creamy, cheesy, yet bright from broccoli.
- Beginner-friendly: Simple steps with big flavor payoff.
- Wholesome: Includes protein, veggies, and grains.
- Kid-approved: Mild and creamy, great for picky eaters.
This recipe hits the sweet spot between indulgence and practicality. It’s easy enough for a casual night but tasty enough to serve company.
FAQs and Tips
Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcook broccoli – Keep it vibrant and slightly crisp.
- Watch your heat – Keep it low when adding cream and cheese.
- Season in stages – Season chicken while cooking, then adjust sauce at the end.
Troubleshooting
- Too watery? Simmer longer or use a cornstarch slurry.
- Sticky pasta? Toss it with olive oil after draining.
- Dry chicken? Cook just until it reaches 165°F.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers.
- Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth, or microwave in intervals, stirring in between.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the chicken, broccoli, and sauce ahead and refrigerate separately.
- Reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta for a quick dinner.
Try These Next:
- Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Italian Chicken Cutlets
- Crack Chicken Penne
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- One-Pan Penne with Spinach and Sausage
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Yield: 4 servings
Total Time: 35 minutes
Creamy, comforting, and full of flavor, this chicken and broccoli penne is a quick and hearty pasta dish the whole family will love. Great for any night of the week!