This creamy broccoli and chicken penne is a game-changer! Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of pasta, loaded with tender chicken and perfectly cooked broccoli, all coated in a rich and velvety sauce that makes every bite feel like a hug. Trust me, you’re going to love this! Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to serve at a party. Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become a regular on your menu. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

This recipe isn’t just about feeding your belly; it’s about creating those feel-good moments. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or a showstopper at any gathering. You can throw it together in no time, and it’ll always impress. Picture your family or guests asking for seconds—maybe even thirds!

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s proof that you don’t need expensive ingredients to create something amazing. It’s comforting, filling, and budget-friendly!

Quick and Easy: The steps are straightforward, so even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this is a dish you can confidently make. There’s no stress, just pure satisfaction at the end.

Customizable: Love garlic? Add extra cloves. Want to make it spicier? Toss in some chili flakes. This dish welcomes tweaks, so you can make it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: You’ll find that everyone—whether picky eaters or big appetites—will enjoy this dish. Creamy, cheesy, and hearty, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and sophisticated flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s where the magic begins. These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Let’s break it down:

Chicken Breasts: The hero of the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts bring lean protein to the party. They cook up tender and juicy and take on all the delicious flavors of the creamy sauce.

Penne Pasta: This shape is perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce. Each bite is like a little pillow of pasta goodness, and it’s a great base for this hearty dish.

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds a bright pop of green and a mild crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients!

Creamy Sauce: This sauce is what takes this dish to the next level. Made with cream, Parmesan, and a few key seasonings, it’s smooth, rich, and totally irresistible.

Seasonings: A little salt, pepper, and garlic powder bring the perfect balance of flavor. You can also toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and perfectly.

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

Cook the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp. If you prefer your broccoli softer, you can cook them a little longer.

Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with the broccoli. Stir in Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until it’s well coated in that creamy sauce.

Serve and Enjoy: Plate the creamy broccoli and chicken penne, and sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Serve it warm, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your meal:

Fresh Salad: Pair with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to add some freshness and balance out the richness of the pasta.

Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread would be the perfect side to soak up any extra creamy sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus are lovely additions that bring extra color and nutrients to the plate.

As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough on its own. No need for extras—just garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a beautiful finish.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Prep Ahead: Save time by prepping the chicken, broccoli, and sauce ingredients ahead of time. Store them in separate containers in the fridge for easy assembly later.

Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the sauce to give it a little kick.

Substitute Ingredients: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try swapping in shrimp or even grilled tofu for a different twist. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.

Double the Batch: This dish makes a great freezer meal. Double the recipe, and freeze half for a busy night when you don’t feel like cooking. It’s a lifesaver!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
A1: Absolutely! Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like tofu.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prep the components ahead of time, and then just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a little extra cream to keep it smooth.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze the dish in a covered, oven-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: How do I reheat it?
A5: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Just make sure your skillet or baking dish is large enough to hold everything. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Q7: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A7: Yes, frozen broccoli will work just fine! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A8: A crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies are all great options.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: You can use whole wheat penne, swap in a lower-fat cream, or load it up with extra veggies for a nutritious boost.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve this dish?
A10: This dish is best served warm with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and a side of bread or salad. It’s comfort food at its finest!