Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is one of those dishes that hits all the right notes: creamy, savory, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of meal you turn to after a long day, or when you want to impress without stress.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Bonus? It comes together in under an hour with simple ingredients and kitchen tools you likely already have on hand. Let’s dive into a bowl of pure comfort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Comfort: It feels like a restaurant-quality meal but is incredibly easy to make at home.
• Wholesome Balance: You get lean protein, green veggies, and comforting carbs all in one dish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for picky eaters, dinner guests, or even kids who aren’t big on broccoli (yet).

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot (for pasta)
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

• 2 cups penne pasta – The ridges catch all that creamy sauce, making every bite satisfying.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds richness and helps get a golden sear on the chicken.
• 2 chicken breasts (bite-sized pieces) – Lean protein that anchors the dish.
• 2 cups broccoli florets – Brings freshness, fiber, and color.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aroma and depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – The creamy heart of the dish.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – Enhances the overall flavor while steaming the broccoli.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings that nutty, salty umami punch.
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning – A subtle earthy blend that pulls it all together.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for flavor balance.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional) – For freshness and a pop of color at the end.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and toss with a tiny drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Steam the Broccoli

In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add broccoli, cover with a lid, and steam for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and stir gently. Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened. (If it’s too thin, stir in a cornstarch slurry—1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tsp water.)

5. Combine Everything

Return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Stir until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Serve It Up

Top with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes.
• Protein Swap: Try shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk in place of heavy cream.

Storing Leftovers & Reheating

• Storage: Let cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad and crusty garlic bread.
• Serve alongside a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy contrast.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan—it melts better and tastes richer than pre-shredded.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli; tender-crisp keeps it vibrant and adds texture.
• Toast the garlic slightly in the oil before adding cream for a deeper flavor.
• Want extra decadence? Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese before adding the pasta.

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is more than just a quick dinner fix—it’s a hug in a bowl. With its balanced ingredients and customizable nature, it easily becomes a family favorite. It’s perfect for weeknights but special enough for guests. Once you make it, you’ll keep coming back to it. Here’s to comfort food done right!

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