The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente penne pasta enveloped in a rich Parmesan cream sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a balanced meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is straightforward to prepare yet delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and Italian herbs, complements the savory chicken and crisp broccoli, making every bite a delightful indulgence.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover and steam until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Remove broccoli and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Season and Serve: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 575 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne: A Classic Comfort Dish
If you’re looking for a meal that perfectly balances rich flavors, hearty textures, and nutritional benefits, then Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is an ideal choice. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and al dente penne pasta with a smooth, velvety Parmesan cream sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food that brings together the best of Italian-inspired cooking in a simple, one-pan meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, this recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. It provides a homemade alternative to restaurant-style creamy pasta dishes—without the excess calories and additives found in store-bought sauces.
The Origins of Creamy Chicken Pasta
Cream-based pasta dishes are a staple in Italian-American cuisine, with variations inspired by classic Italian recipes like Fettuccine Alfredo. While traditional Italian pasta often features lighter sauces made with olive oil, tomatoes, or pesto, Italian-American adaptations introduced cream-based sauces for a richer, more indulgent taste. This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne recipe takes inspiration from classic Alfredo-style pastas, incorporating Parmesan cheese, garlic, and cream. However, it also includes broccoli, adding freshness, color, and extra nutrition to the dish.Chicken and pasta are a popular pairing in many cuisines because they complement each other beautifully—chicken provides a lean protein source, while pasta offers energy-boosting carbohydrates. The addition of broccoli makes this dish even more well-rounded, providing fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture – The Parmesan-infused cream sauce coats every bite of pasta, making it irresistibly smooth and delicious.
- Quick and Easy to Make – This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Balanced and Nutritious – Packed with lean protein from chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and whole-grain pasta options, this dish is both satisfying and good for you.
- Customizable to Your Taste – You can tweak this recipe to fit your dietary needs by using gluten-free pasta, dairy-free alternatives, or adding different vegetables.
- Family-Friendly – Creamy pasta is a favorite for both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners.
The Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli and Chicken
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with essential nutrients:
- Broccoli: A powerhouse vegetable rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that support immune health and digestion. It’s also known for its cancer-fighting properties.
- Chicken: A high-quality protein source that helps with muscle growth and repair, while also being lower in fat compared to other meats.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides a rich, nutty flavor along with calcium and protein, making it a great addition to the dish.
- Garlic: Contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that contribute to overall wellness.
With this combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, this pasta dish is a great way to fuel your body while indulging in something creamy and comforting.
How to Customize This Dish
One of the best things about Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is that it can be easily customized to fit different tastes and dietary preferences:
For a Healthier Version:
- Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
- Swap out heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a low-fat milk alternative.
- Reduce the cheese or use a dairy-free substitute.
For More Flavor:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Stir in fresh basil or parsley for an herby twist.
For Extra Protein:
- Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood variation.
- Stir in cooked bacon for a smoky, savory kick.
For a Vegetarian Version:
- Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
- Use cashew cream or coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
This flexibility makes the dish a great addition to any meal plan!
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
To round out your meal, consider serving this dish with:
- Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery side that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad – A light, refreshing salad with a lemon vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables – If you want extra veggies, roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or zucchini make great additions.
Perfect Occasions to Enjoy This Dish
This dish is versatile and works well for different occasions:
- Weeknight Dinners – Quick, easy, and satisfying.
- Family Gatherings – A crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
- Meal Prep – Makes great leftovers for lunch or dinner.
- Date Night – A restaurant-quality meal that’s simple to make at home.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
Conclusion
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is more than just a simple pasta dish—it’s a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this meal delivers on taste, texture, and convenience. With a creamy, garlicky sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, it’s a go-to recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. Give this dish a try tonight, and enjoy the richness of homemade comfort food with the goodness of healthy ingredients.
