This Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a tasty dish that brings together tender chicken and bright green broccoli with fun penne pasta. It’s creamy, cheesy, and super comforting!
Cooking this feels like a warm hug on a plate. I like to add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top just before serving—because who can resist a cheesy upgrade? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Classic penne is great for holding onto the sauce. If you want a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free penne or any chickpea or lentil pasta. They add a nice twist and extra protein!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works perfectly—just thaw before use. Cauliflower is another delightful alternative if you’re a fan of it!
Chicken: Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. You can swap them for thighs for more flavor, or even use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Just stir it in at the end to heat through.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich sauce. If you want a lighter dish, you can use half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk with a bit of cornstarch for thickening. Coconut milk is a fun dairy-free option!
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting the chicken golden-brown and cooked perfectly is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how to ensure you nail this step:
- Cut chicken into even, bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding oil and chicken to achieve that nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure—165°F (75°C) is the perfect safe temperature.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Cream Sauce?
Thickening the cream sauce is crucial for a nice, clingy texture. Here’s how:
- After adding the cream, keep the heat on medium low to gently simmer the sauce.
- Stir often to avoid sticking and burning.
- Add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly. This helps it melt smoothly. If it seems too thick, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it!
How to Make Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Meat:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking, plus 20 minutes for the actual cooking process. It’s quick and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). When your pasta has about 3 minutes left to cook, toss in the broccoli florets right into the boiling water. This way, they’ll cook perfectly together! Once done, drain the pasta and broccoli, and set them aside for now.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your cut chicken pieces to the skillet, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté them until they turn golden brown and are cooked through—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn! Now, lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Mix it well and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens up a bit.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Once the cream is slightly thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is nice and creamy. If you like a hint of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point. Taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked chicken, penne pasta, and broccoli back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently to make sure everything is coated in that creamy sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat everything through.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is heated and well mixed, take it off the heat. Garnish your delicious Broccoli and Chicken Penne with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Penne?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor, while gluten-free penne is a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Just follow the cooking instructions on the packaging, as cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch to thicken it. Coconut milk is also a delicious dairy-free alternative, giving a slightly different flavor profile.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Besides red pepper flakes, try adding Italian seasoning, thyme, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms can also add an extra depth of flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.