Tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and al dente penne pasta all coated in a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce—this comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
Ready in under 40 minutes, this satisfying pasta recipe brings together simple ingredients for a balanced and hearty meal. It’s beginner-friendly yet elegant enough to impress guests, making it a staple you’ll turn to again and again.
🧀 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting & Creamy: A luscious Parmesan sauce ties everything together in a cozy, indulgent dish.
- Quick & Easy: From stovetop to table in less than 40 minutes.
- Customizable: Swap proteins, add veggies, or spice it up.
- Family-Friendly: Mild, creamy flavors that even picky eaters enjoy.
- Meal Prep Approved: Stores and reheats beautifully.
🍝 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this crowd-pleasing creamy pasta:
- 2 cups penne pasta – Holds the sauce perfectly in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the chicken and adding richness.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh, vibrant crunch to balance the creaminess.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic base of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The star of the velvety sauce.
- ½ cup chicken broth – Adds depth of flavor.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings a nutty, salty kick.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – A touch of herbs to enhance flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) – For a fresh, colorful garnish.
🛍️ Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions
- Protein swap: Try shrimp, turkey, rotisserie chicken, or tofu.
- Dairy-free? Use coconut or cashew cream and nutritional yeast.
- Flavor boosters:
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Red pepper flakes for heat
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain, toss with a little olive oil, and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sauté for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Steam the Broccoli
- In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add broccoli, cover, and steam for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Remove lid and let excess liquid evaporate if needed.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently.
- Add Parmesan and whisk until melted and smooth.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. If too thin, whisk in a slurry of 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tsp water.
5. Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet, stirring to coat with the sauce.
- Add cooked pasta and toss everything together.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings
- Green salad with light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls
- Roasted vegetables for added nutrition
How to Serve
- Rustic Style: Serve straight from the skillet for a cozy, homey feel.
- Elegant Touch: Plate individually with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Family Style: Place a large dish on the table for easy sharing.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
To Reheat:
- On the stove: Add a splash of broth or cream and reheat gently over low heat.
- In the microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between each, until warmed through.
🍴 Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook chicken and broccoli ahead and refrigerate.
- Make the sauce and store in a jar or container for up to 2 days.
- At dinnertime: Boil fresh pasta, reheat other components, and combine.
❓ Recipe FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and drain it well before adding.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep heat low when adding cream and cheese. Don’t let it boil.
How do I double the recipe?
Use a large skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate extra ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is everything you want in a comfort meal—rich, flavorful, satisfying, and easy to make. It brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels cozy and indulgent, without taking all day to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Leave a Comment