If you’re on the lookout for a dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is your new best friend. Bursting with tender chicken, vibrant green broccoli florets, and a luxuriously cheesy sauce, every forkful feels like a mini celebration. There’s something magical about how the savory Parmesan and gooey mozzarella meld together, coating the penne in a glossy blanket of flavor. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting a casual weeknight gathering, this dish effortlessly brings people together around the table.
Beyond its indulgent creaminess, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort and freshness. A squeeze of bright lemon juice cuts through the richness, while fresh parsley lends a pop of color and herbaceous aroma. You’ll find yourself sneaking small tastes as you assemble everything, eagerly awaiting that first official bite. And here’s the best part: it’s incredibly approachable, even for beginners. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll end up with a dish that tastes like you’ve been cooking for years.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY BROCCOLI AND CHICKEN PENNE
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s get acquainted with the stars of the show. Each ingredient plays an essential role in building layers of taste, texture, and aroma. From the backbone of al dente pasta to the bright punch of fresh parsley, here’s what makes this dish shine.
- Penne pasta: A tubular shape that traps the creamy sauce in every nook, ensuring each bite is loaded with cheesy goodness.
- Olive oil: Provides a silky base for sautéing the chicken and garlic, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Chicken breast: Lean and tender, it soaks up all the seasonings and becomes juicy when you sear it just right.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every other flavor in the dish.
- Garlic: Minced for an aromatic kick that infuses the oil and elevates the sauce’s depth.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings warmth and complexity without overpowering the main ingredients.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh, crisp bites of green that add color, nutrients, and a lovely contrast to the rich sauce.
- Chicken broth: Introduces savory umami and thins the sauce just enough to coat the pasta beautifully.
- Heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, delivering that irresistible, velvety texture we all crave.
- Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it melts into the sauce, boosting its savory intensity.
- Mozzarella cheese: Brings creamy stretchiness and a mild, milky flavor for maximum comfort.
- Lemon juice: Just a splash brightens the entire dish with a hint of acidity.
- Fresh parsley: A final garnish that adds freshness, color, and a gentle herbal note.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY BROCCOLI AND CHICKEN PENNE
Let’s roll up our sleeves and transform these ingredients into a comforting, cheesy masterpiece. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy pasta on the table in under an hour. Remember to multitask smartly—while the pasta cooks, you can prep the chicken and veggies.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside in the colander—no one wants soggy noodles!
2. In a spacious skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot oil. Let the chicken cook, undisturbed, for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.
3. Using the same skillet (no need to wash it!), add the minced garlic and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes wonderfully fragrant—watch out, it can brown quickly!
4. Toss the broccoli florets into the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Increase the heat to bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then cover the pan. Let it steam for 4–5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender to the fork.
5. Lower the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently for another 2 minutes, giving the sauce time to thicken slightly.
6. Gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously. Continue until both cheeses are fully melted and the sauce turns into a lusciously smooth emulsion.
7. Return the cooked penne pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Stir thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta and chicken is enveloped in the creamy sauce.
8. Pour in the lemon juice and give everything a final, enthusiastic toss. This bright note will make all the flavors pop.
9. Dish the pasta onto plates or into a large serving bowl. Sprinkle with the chopped fresh parsley for a final flourish, then serve hot.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY BROCCOLI AND CHICKEN PENNE
Once your skillet delivers that irresistible swirl of creamy sauce and vibrant greens, it’s time to think about how to present it best. A few simple touches will elevate the experience, making it feel like a special treat even on an ordinary weeknight. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or impressing house guests, these tips will help you serve this dish with style and flair.
- Family-style platter: Transfer the pasta to a large shallow bowl, letting everyone help themselves. Garnish the top with extra Parmesan shavings and chopped parsley. The communal setup feels cozy and encourages sharing stories around the table.
- Individual bowls: For a more refined look, spoon portions into deep pasta bowls. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top and add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick. A small lemon wedge on the side brightens up each serving.
- Garlic bread pairing: Toast slices of crusty bread brushed with garlic-infused butter. The crunchy texture is perfect for scooping up any stray sauce and balances the creaminess with a bit of crispness.
- Green side salad: Whip up a simple salad of mixed baby greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The acidity and crunch cut through the richness of the pasta, making each bite feel fresh and balanced.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY BROCCOLI AND CHICKEN PENNE
If you have leftovers (and trust me, you might!), proper storage ensures every future bite tastes just as delightful as the first. Creamy pasta dishes can sometimes separate when refrigerated, but a few savvy tricks will help you preserve both texture and flavor. Let’s explore the best methods for stashing away this pasta so you can enjoy it all week long.
- Airtight containers: Once cooled to room temperature, transfer the pasta into BPA-free, airtight containers. Seal tightly to keep out air and odors. This method keeps the sauce creamy and prevents it from drying out.
- Mason jars for single servings: Portion the pasta into individual mason jars, filling them no more than three-quarters full. These jars seal in freshness and are perfect for grab-and-go lunches. When reheating, remove the lid and warm gently in the microwave.
- Add a splash of liquid: Before sealing, stir in a tablespoon of milk or chicken broth into each container. This helps maintain the sauce’s consistency and prevents it from becoming gummy when chilled.
- Freeze for longer storage: If you want to hold onto extra servings for more than three days, freeze the pasta in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stove with a dash of extra broth to revive the creaminess.
CONCLUSION
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne has all the hallmarks of a dish you’ll turn to time and time again: simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a result that feels indulgent without being fussy. Starting with al dente penne pasta and ending with a lemon-kissed, cheese-laden sauce, each moment in the kitchen builds anticipation for that first heartwarming spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for kids, roommates, or a dinner date, this recipe has the versatility and crowd-pleasing power to win over even the most discerning palates. Plus, the addition of fresh broccoli balances out the richness, so you can savor every bite without guilt.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or bookmark it on your device for those busy weeknights. You’ll also find a FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions before you cook. If you try this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop a comment or share your tips! And if you have any questions or need a bit of troubleshooting (I’ve been there when the sauce decides to act up), don’t hesitate to leave your thoughts. Your feedback helps this recipe continue to evolve and brings even more joy to the dinner table. Enjoy cooking, and here’s to many delicious meals ahead!
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Description
This creamy broccoli and chicken penne brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich cheesy sauce, making every bite a satisfying experience that's sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli cook for about 4-5 minutes until tender.
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Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently for another 2 minutes.
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Gradually add the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta and chicken with the creamy sauce.
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Add the lemon juice and give everything a final toss.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Note
- You can substitute the chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free penne pasta as a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
- For an extra touch of flavor, you can add some sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts.
- Leftovers reheated the next day can be just as delicious, just add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
