Description
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food—fast, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just need a bowl of something cozy, this easy recipe combines tender chicken breast, crisp broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all tossed in a rich, cheesy cream sauce. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, healthy-ish comfort food, or easy recipes to impress your family, this dish delivers every single time. The creamy texture, combined with savory chicken and fresh broccoli, makes it a go-to food idea for pasta lovers who want both flavor and balance. It’s one of those feel-good meals that tastes like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes until fully cooked and golden. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3–5 minutes to slightly thicken.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes or Italian herbs.
- Add cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken into the sauce. Toss to combine and heat through. Add pasta water a little at a time if sauce is too thick.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper on top.