Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce with penne pasta. It’s a comforting meal that brings everyone to the table, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is easy to whip up, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice because it is simple, quick, and packed with flavor. Chicken provides protein, while broccoli adds nutrients and color. The creamy sauce makes every bite rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup for you. If you’re looking for a way to make dinner easy and delicious, Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli is the way to go!

How to Make Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in garlic powder and broccoli florets, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Reduce heat; add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until combined and heated through.
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and combine well.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli

Serve Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli hot on a plate. You can add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for flavor. A side salad or some crusty bread pairs well with this dish.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli

To store leftover Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli

Make sure not to overcook the broccoli; you want it tender but still crisp.
Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Variation

For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream option. You can also use whole grain penne for a healthier choice.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the dish.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta that you have on hand, such as farfalle, fusilli, or spaghetti.

3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, you can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. Just make sure to add the same seasonings for flavor.