Description
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it balances hearty protein and vegetables with a deliciously smooth sauce that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
Sauce & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Steam the Broccoli: While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes. You can use a steaming basket or microwave with a bit of water. Set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika during cooking for added flavor.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Reduce the heat to medium, add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in Italian seasoning.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the chicken and garlic. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta and steamed broccoli florets to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is well coated with the creamy sauce and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately while warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may be less rich.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for better texture and flavor.
- This dish can be made with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid sauce separation.
