Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

The Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne pasta in a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, bringing comfort and flavor to your table. The balance of savory chicken and vibrant broccoli makes every bite satisfying, while the creamy sauce adds a luxurious touch that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheeses creates a rich sauce that enhances the overall taste.
• Versatile: You can easily swap out vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand, making it customizable.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy pasta dish, making it great for family meals.
• One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, which simplifies cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta quickly and evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce all in one pan.
• Colander: Useful for draining cooked pasta and broccoli efficiently.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware surfaces.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella

Seasoning

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Boil a large pot of salted water.
• Add penne pasta to the boiling water; cook until al dente.
• During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pot.
• Drain both pasta and broccoli together; set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook chicken for about 5–6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

• In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir in softened cream cheese until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• Add grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and Italian seasoning to the sauce. Stir until creamy.
• Season with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for added heat.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

• Toss cooked penne pasta, broccoli florets, and chicken into the sauce mixture.
• Stir well until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to impress your family or guests. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With a Side Salad

• A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. This adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Steamed Vegetables

• Complement the dish with a side of steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans for added nutrition and color.

Grated Cheese Topping

• Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an added burst of flavor and richness.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

To ensure your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne turns out flawlessly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Cook pasta al dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and garlic elevate the flavor and texture of your dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before mixing everything in. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a couple of minutes after cooking; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Pairing your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing add crunch and zest to your meal.
3. Roasted Asparagus – Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, season, and roast until tender for a deliciously healthy side.
4. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with creamy dishes.
5. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf provides a wholesome option that complements the richness of the penne.
6. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers offer a refreshing bite between rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish.

• Not salting the pasta water: Salting your pasta water is crucial as it enhances flavor. Always add a generous amount of salt before cooking your penne.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown color and ensure it’s fully cooked without overdoing it.
• Skipping the cream cheese: Omitting cream cheese can lead to a less creamy sauce. This ingredient is key for achieving that rich texture, so don’t skip it!
• Not adjusting seasoning: Tasting and adjusting seasoning at the end is important. Every ingredient varies, so ensure you balance flavors with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheeses may not melt well or offer the same flavor depth. Opt for good quality Parmesan and mozzarella for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will maintain quality for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or cream to revive its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne.

Can I use other vegetables in Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten it up, consider using low-fat cream cheese or half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use turkey or even beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli. Its versatility allows room for customization; swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!