Description
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a rich and hearty pasta dish that balances creamy indulgence with nutritious green broccoli and savory chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family meal, it’s full of flavor, comforting texture, and customizable ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain together and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 3–5 minutes.
- Return chicken to the pan. Add Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and sauce is creamy.
- Toss in the drained pasta and broccoli. Stir to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top if desired.