This Broccoli and Chicken Penne dish is a colorful and tasty meal! Tender broccoli, juicy chicken, and pasta come together with a delicious sauce that ties it all nicely.
It’s so easy and quick to make! I love tossing in extra veggies for fun. Plus, it’s a solid weeknight dinner that makes you feel good about eating your greens! 🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is the pasta of choice for its shape. If you don’t have penne, use rigatoni or farfalle. Both have good surface area for holding onto the sauce.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. You can substitute with other vegetables like snap peas or spinach for variety.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well here. You can swap them for cooked rotisserie chicken for less prep time or use firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its richness. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best. If you’re short on cheese, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can give a similar umami flavor.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken evenly is crucial for taste and texture. Here are steps to achieve perfectly cooked chicken:
- Cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Heat the oil in your skillet on medium-high. This ensures a good sear.
- Season the chicken as you cook. This boosts flavor right from the start.
- Cook until the chicken is browned on the outside and no longer pink inside, about 6-8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) for safety.
By following these tips, your chicken will turn out juicy and delicious, helping to elevate your Broccoli and Chicken Penne! Enjoy the comforting combination of flavors.
How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Vegetables:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick yet satisfying meal that everyone will love—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, toss the broccoli florets into the pot with the pasta. When everything is ready, drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian herbs. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Cheese and Combine:
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to mix until the sauce thickens slightly. If it gets too thick, feel free to add a splash of reserved pasta water or more broth to loosen it.
5. Combine Everything and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to make sure the pasta and veggies are well-coated with the creamy sauce. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, and Italian herbs if you like.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
To finish, serve your creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne garnished with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. You can also add lemon wedges on the side for a bright finishing touch!
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Broccoli and Chicken Penne!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, you can add it directly to the pot with the penne pasta for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just make sure to cook it until it is heated through, which might take an extra minute compared to fresh broccoli.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy consistency.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens up too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
