Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is the kind of weeknight meal that satisfies cravings for comfort while sneaking in plenty of vegetables. With a velvety Parmesan sauce clinging to penne, bites of tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, this recipe has become my go-to for those cozy evenings when everyone is hungry and nobody wants to fuss over dinner.

I first threw this together after a long workday when my family wanted something extra comforting. Now it is the dish my partner asks for after tough weeks. Even picky eaters in my house have come to love it.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: Two cups hold the creamy sauce beautifully and the shape makes it fun to eat
• Olive oil: Just two tablespoons add flavor and help cook the chicken without sticking
• Chicken breasts: Fresh chicken cut into bite sized pieces cooks up juicy and tender Try to use high quality or organic when possible for best flavor
• Broccoli florets: Two cups add beautiful color and a nutritious crunch Look for bright green florets with firm stems
• Garlic: Minced for that aromatic base three cloves is just the right punch without overpowering
• Heavy cream: One cup creates the rich velvety sauce Full fat cream brings the best texture
• Chicken broth: Half a cup for extra savory body and to steam the broccoli Choose low sodium for more control over seasoning
• Parmesan cheese: Grated preferably fresh for the best melt and nutty flavor Skip the pre shredded kind if you can
• Italian seasoning: Half a teaspoon adds herby depth without needing multiple jars Look for blends with rosemary oregano thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste and season as you go for perfect flavor
• Fresh parsley: Optional but a quarter cup gives a pop of color and freshness Use flat leaf for the nicest chop

Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook two cups of penne until just al dente about ten minutes Test a noodle for bite then drain and set aside

Sauté the Chicken:

In a large skillet heat two tablespoons olive oil over medium high Add the chicken pieces and scatter over Italian seasoning salt and pepper Cook for about five to seven minutes stirring occasionally until the outside is golden brown and the inside is no longer pink Remove the chicken to a clean plate and keep warm

Prepare the Broccoli:

Pour half a cup of chicken broth into the same skillet and bring to a simmer Add the broccoli florets Cover and steam for about four to five minutes until the florets are bright green and fork tender Remove broccoli with a slotted spoon and set with the chicken

Build the Sauce:

Still using the same skillet lower the heat to medium Add the minced garlic and sauté for about thirty seconds until fragrant Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan Stir constantly letting the cheese melt and the sauce thicken slightly about three minutes Scrape up any brown bits from the pan as you go for extra flavor

Bring Everything Together:

Return the cooked pasta chicken and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce Toss everything thoroughly so the penne is well coated with the creamy sauce Warm through for another two minutes Adjust salt and pepper to taste

Finish and Serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if using and serve immediately while piping hot

My favorite part of this dish is adding heaps of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving It brings out the nutty notes of the Parmesan and wakes up the whole pot. One evening my best friend and I devoured this standing at the counter after a long day laughing about how broccoli and pasta somehow feel fancy together.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator They will stay fresh for up to three days When reheating add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture If freezing portion the pasta into freezer safe bags and thaw overnight in the fridge before warming gently on the stove

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap penne for rotini or farfalle with great results If heavy cream is not on hand use half and half or even mascarpone for a different richness For dairy free versions coconut cream works well Shredded cooked rotisserie chicken can save time too

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad and lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness Warm focaccia or garlic bread pairs beautifully Seasonal roasted vegetables on the side create a colorful hearty meal

Cultural Context

Creamy pasta is a classic comfort in Italian American kitchens This dish echoes favorites like Alfredo and primavera but brings in more balance with vegetables and chicken Without being fussy it nods to the tradition of gathering loved ones for nourishing food

Seasonal Adaptations

In spring swap broccoli for asparagus or snap peas Summer calls for tossing in cherry tomatoes and fresh basil Fall or winter add roasted butternut squash and extra herbs

Helpful notes about this recipe

Leftover sauce thickens as it chills so loosen with a bit of milk when reheating Broccoli stems sliced thinly are perfect to use instead of tossing which reduces waste If you want a little heat sprinkle in a pinch of chili flakes with the garlic

Success Stories

When I shared this recipe during a family reunion last year it became a centerpiece dish. Several cousins called me later for the instructions and one even made it for her new neighbor. There is nothing like seeing a simple meal turn into a memory maker around the table.

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can fully assemble the pasta sauce chicken and broccoli then freeze in single servings or in a larger baking dish Reheat in a covered dish at a low temperature in the oven or microwave adding a splash of cream if needed

This creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is sure to satisfy comfort food cravings any night of the week. Let your own twist and fresh herbs make it a new favorite at your table.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, substitute penne with other short pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini for a similar result.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead?

Prepare components in advance and combine them before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

→ Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Leftover chicken works well. Add it when tossing the pasta with the sauce to heat through.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

→ How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Maintain moderate heat and mix the cream in slowly to ensure a smooth, velvety sauce.