The aroma of garlic mingling with creamy goodness fills the air as you venture into the world of comfort food. Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is one of those dishes that makes you sigh with contentment after a long day. It’s a delightful blend of tender penne pasta, succulent chicken, and vibrant broccoli speckled with a luxurious sauce. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy weeknight when I busied myself in the kitchen, searching for something hearty and easy. This dish perfectly balanced flavor and nourishment, sinfully rich, yet wholesome enough to enjoy guilt-free.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

When life gets hectic, this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne offers a much-needed escape while keeping the cooking breeze quick and simple. It’s perfect for those weeknight dinners when you want something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing for family gatherings or even a simple meal prepped for lunches throughout the week.

"This recipe has become my go-to for busy nights! Everyone loves the creamy sauce, and I love how quick it is to throw together."

Preparing Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

This savory dish flows from about 30 minutes of prep to plate, making it a dream come true for bustling evenings. Begin by cooking the penne, then start sautéing chicken until golden brown, followed by a quick garlic sauté, and finally, the magic of a rich creamy sauce comes together all in one skillet. Toss in the broccoli and finished chicken, and you’re ready to enjoy! It’s as simple as that, so let’s dive deeper into the ingredients you need.

What You’ll Need

8 oz Penne Pasta
2 cups Broccoli Florets
1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
1 tbsp Olive Oil
3 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 cup Heavy Cream
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian Seasoning (optional)
2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)

If you prefer, you can swap penne for other pasta types like rotini or fettuccine! Keep in mind that for a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or even Greek yogurt.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the penne pasta following package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook each side until golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in the broccoli florets, cooking them until they are bright green and tender-crisp, around 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat and pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and, if using, the Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
Return the sliced chicken and cooked penne to the skillet. Toss everything until it’s well combined and heated through. Taste the dish, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

An inviting serving can take your dish from good to unbeatable! Plate your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne in wide, shallow bowls, allowing the creamy sauce to glisten enticingly. Pair it with a light side salad—perhaps with a lemon vinaigrette—or some crusty garlic bread to mop up any leftover sauce. For a drink, consider a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Store your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce; you can also use a microwave for convenience, but be careful not to overheat.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To elevate your creamy dish, consider a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a punchy twist or some toasted pine nuts for an extra pleasant crunch. Cooking the chicken until slightly underdone (it will finish cooking when added back to the sauce) can help keep it juicy and tender. Also, don’t forget to save a bit of pasta water before draining; it makes a great thickener for your sauce if it becomes too thick.

Recipe Variations

Looking to mix things up? Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for an even more colorful twist. You could also swap out Parmesan for another cheese, like mozzarella or feta. For a vegan option, replace the chicken with tofu, use vegan cream, and nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe; just add it to the skillet a little earlier to ensure it cooks through.

Is it safe to store leftovers?
Absolutely! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they should stay fresh for up to three days.