This Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a tasty, creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli. It’s simple to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
I love how the colors pop on the plate! Plus, it’s great for getting my veggies in while enjoying a yummy meal. Just cook, mix, and dinner is ready—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This is a great choice for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using whole wheat penne for more fiber or gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give a nice crunch and vibrant color. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli works too; just make sure to thaw and drain it first.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. You can use thighs for a richer flavor or even swap with cooked shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
Heavy Cream: This adds rich creaminess to the sauce. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, or for a dairy-free substitute, coconut milk provides a nice flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than the pre-grated type. In a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Make the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken so it’s tender and juicy can be tricky, but a few tips can help. First, season your chicken well with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking—it makes a big difference in flavor.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps to sear the outside.
- Cook the chicken in a single layer; overcrowding the pan can make it steam instead of brown.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How to Make Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
For The Sauce and Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For The Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Broccoli and Chicken Penne takes about 30 minutes to make. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything until it’s perfectly creamy and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. About 3-4 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain both the pasta and the broccoli, but be sure to save ½ cup of the pasta water for later. This will help you adjust the sauce consistency!
2. Preparing the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. When it’s finished, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Making the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it’s melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you have your desired consistency.
4. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce, stirring to combine. Then, add the drained penne pasta and broccoli, tossing gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serving:
Your Broccoli and Chicken Penne is ready to enjoy! Serve it warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and a lemon wedge on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the dish. You’ll want to toss it in during the last couple of minutes of cooking to ensure it heats through without getting mushy.
What Other Pasta Can I Use Instead of Penne?
While penne works wonderfully, you can use other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary slightly depending on the shape you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if needed to loosen up the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this a vegetarian meal! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also add some chickpeas for protein!
