Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Recipe – A Comforting Pasta Delight

If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, then Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is the dish for you. With a velvety, Parmesan-infused sauce, this dish is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit with all.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

What makes this dish stand out is its rich creamy sauce that perfectly complements the broccoli and chicken. The broccoli adds a light crunch and a burst of freshness to the dish, while the chicken breast provides that much-needed protein. The penne pasta holds the creamy sauce well, and every bite is like a hug in a bowl.

Key Ingredients for a Perfectly Creamy Pasta

To make this creamy chicken pasta, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a key role in making this dish a comforting masterpiece. Let’s go over the essentials:

Pasta and Broccoli

The base of any good pasta dish is, of course, the pasta. For this recipe, penne is the perfect choice. The short, tubular shape allows the creamy sauce to coat each piece of pasta wonderfully. Add in broccoli florets, and you’ve got a great mix of crunch and flavor to balance out the creamy goodness.

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, giving them a deliciously seasoned crust and juicy interior. This adds the much-needed protein to make this dish hearty and satisfying.

Creamy Sauce

The sauce is the star of the dish, made with heavy cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese. This mixture creates a smooth, rich texture that clings to the pasta and chicken. With the addition of Italian seasoning and a touch of red pepper flakes, this sauce becomes even more irresistible.

The Step-by-Step Process: How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Making Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time. Let’s break it down.

1. Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli

The first step is to cook your penne pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until it’s al dente, about 10-12 minutes. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. This will allow the broccoli to cook to a perfect crisp-tender texture without losing its vibrant green color. Once both the pasta and broccoli are done, drain them and set them aside.

2. Cooking the Chicken

While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, it’s time to prepare the chicken. First, season the cubed chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

3. Preparing the Creamy Sauce

Now, we move on to the sauce. In the same pan where you cooked the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well to combine. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

If the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can add some reserved pasta water to thin it out. This pasta water contains starch that will help thicken the sauce and make it creamy without losing the consistency.

4. Combining Everything

Now comes the fun part—mixing everything together! Add the cooked penne pasta, broccoli, and chicken into the pan with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together so that the pasta, broccoli, and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy goodness. This step is where the magic happens as the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

5. Serving

To finish off the dish, garnish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a handful of freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm, and you’ve got a delicious, comforting meal that’s sure to please anyone at your table.

Why Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a Great Choice for Dinner

This dish is perfect for a variety of occasions. Here’s why it makes for an excellent choice for your next meal:

• Quick and Easy: With a total cook time of around 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile: The dish is incredibly versatile, as you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen. You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even use other vegetables like spinach or peas.
• Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and hearty ingredients make this pasta the perfect comfort food for any time of year, especially during the cooler months.

Nutritional Information for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

While this dish is undoubtedly rich and creamy, it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 500-600 calories (depending on portion size and ingredients)
• Protein: About 35-40 grams from the chicken
• Carbohydrates: Around 40-50 grams from the pasta
• Fat: 20-25 grams (mostly from the butter and cream)

For those who are looking for a lower-calorie version, you can make a few adjustments such as using whole wheat pasta, reducing the amount of butter or cream, or opting for a leaner protein like turkey.

FAQs About Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is a great choice for this creamy dish, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or rotini. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente to hold up to the creamy sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Make the sauce, cook the chicken and pasta, and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat everything together and toss it in the creamy sauce.

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

If you prefer a different protein, you can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even turkey for a leaner option.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also experiment with hot sauce or jalapeños for an extra kick!

Conclusion

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a fantastic dish that combines the best of comfort food with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a weeknight meal, it’s sure to become a favorite. With its rich, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender chicken, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a meal that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!

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