Name: Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

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Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is like a warm hug from your grandma—comforting, rich, and the ultimate feel-good dish. Imagine tender chicken mingling with perfectly cooked penne, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce. The vibrant green broccoli adds a pop of color and crunch, making each bite a delightful experience for your taste buds. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

This dish holds a special place in my heart; it reminds me of cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air just as much as the aroma of garlic. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne never fails to impress and satisfy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy broccoli and chicken penne is quick to make, letting you whip up dinner in under 30 minutes.
Its flavor profile is a delightful balance of savory chicken and rich creaminess, making every bite unforgettable.
The bright green broccoli not only looks appealing but also adds nutritional value to your meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish adapts effortlessly to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will do nicely; adjust according to your hungry crowd.
Penne Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free if you want to mix things up while keeping it hearty.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green florets that are firm; they’ll add nice crunch and nutrition.
Heavy Cream: For that dreamy richness—don’t skimp on this one; it’s the star of the show!
Garlic: Fresh cloves work best; they provide an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth of flavor; use freshly grated for the best results.

For the Seasoning:

Salt & Pepper: Basic but essential. Adjust these to suit your taste preferences.
Italian Seasoning: A sprinkle of this will transport your taste buds straight to Italy!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Make sure not to overcook it because nobody likes mushy pasta!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté them for about six minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and let them rest before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (hello flavor!), add chopped broccoli florets along with minced garlic. Sauté for about three minutes until they’re tender yet still vibrant green.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in that heavy cream we’ve been dreaming about! Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts beautifully into that creamy goodness. Add back your sliced chicken into this heavenly mixture.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time for some pasta magic! Toss in your drained penne into the skillet with all those tasty components—make sure every piece gets coated in that luxurious sauce.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your creamy broccoli and chicken penne onto plates or into bowls. Top with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy! Drizzle with olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch.

Enjoy diving into this comforting bowl of Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne that brings warmth to any meal!

You Must Know

This creamy broccoli and chicken penne recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes dinner feel like a special occasion.
You can customize it based on what you have on hand.
The colorful ingredients create a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike.
Perfect for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for guests.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve creamy perfection, start by searing the chicken to golden brown first. While that’s happening, boil your penne pasta until al dente. Then, prepare the sauce in a separate pan, combining flavors that will make your taste buds sing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the veggies; spinach or bell peppers work wonders here. Swap in gluten-free penne if you prefer or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain that luscious creaminess and prevent drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh broccoli for better texture and flavor; frozen might turn mushy.
Cook pasta just shy of al dente since it will continue cooking in the sauce.
Always taste as you go; seasoning can make or break your dish!

It was one of those evenings when I decided to whip up this creamy broccoli and chicken penne on a whim. My family devoured it so quickly, I thought about serving it every night!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?

To make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, you’ll need penne pasta, chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, heavy cream, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You may also want to include seasonings like Italian herbs or red pepper flakes for added flavor. These ingredients come together to create a delightful dish that is both creamy and satisfying. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?

Preparing Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes the time required to cook the pasta and chicken while sautéing the broccoli. delicious broccoli salad recipe The quick cooking time makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. tortellini pasta salad recipe chicken Caesar pasta salad.

Can I make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes, Simply prepare the dish as instructed, then allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. However, keep in mind that the sauce may thicken upon refrigeration; adding a splash of milk can help restore its creamy texture.

What variations can I try with Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?

There are several delicious variations you can try with Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne. You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Additionally, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or whole wheat penne for a healthier twist.

Conclusion :

In summary, Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Using simple ingredients like penne pasta, chicken breast, and fresh broccoli ensures that you create a satisfying meal. chipotle ranch grilled chicken The creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully, making it a favorite for family dinners or weeknight meals. Try this recipe today to enjoy a comforting bowl of pasta that everyone will love!