Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne

Hello, friend! If you’re looking for a simple yet comforting dish that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place. Today, I want to share my go-to recipe for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne. It’s not just delicious, but it also comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick. I can’t tell you how many times this meal has saved my evening!

Nutritional Benefits

This dish isn’t just tasty; it also has some fantastic health perks! Broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K, making it great for your immune system and bone health. Plus, the chicken provides a hefty dose of protein, which is so important for keeping you full and satisfied. And let’s not forget about the whole-grain penne! If you opt for that, you’ll add extra fiber to your meal, which is awesome for digestion. Together, they make a balanced meal that you can feel great about serving!

Adaptable Variations to Make

Vegetarian Twist: You can easily swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu if you’re looking for a plant-based option. Both are fantastic in this creamy dish!
For the Cheese Lovers: Adding extra cheese like mozzarella or parmesan not only enhances the creaminess but gives it a wonderful flavor boost. Don’t be shy with the cheese!
Spice It Up: If you love a little kick, try tossing in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor!

Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups chopped broccoli florets
1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Start by cooking your penne according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Next, toss in the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli becomes tender but still bright green.
Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Add the cooked penne and shredded cheese to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese melts beautifully into the sauce!
Serve warm, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like for a lovely pop of color!

Valuable Tips

To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Just warm it through with the other ingredients!
Feel free to use frozen broccoli florets if you can’t get fresh—just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove!

Equipment Needed

Here’s a little checklist of what you’ll need to whip up this wonderful dish:

A large pot for boiling the pasta
A large skillet for sautéing the chicken and mixing everything together
A colander to drain the pasta
A spoon or spatula for stirring
A cutting board and knife for chopping

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the penne for any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or farfalle.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this? Yes! You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a cheesy flavor!
How can I add more veggies? Try adding bell peppers, spinach, or even carrots to sneak in even more nutrients!
Can I prepare this in advance? You could cook the chicken and broccoli ahead of time, and just combine everything when you’re ready to eat!
What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half can be a slightly lighter option, but if you want something lighter still, use Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk.