When you’re craving comfort but want something with a bit more flair, this Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne is the answer. Imagine perfectly cooked penne pasta, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all coated in a silky, flavorful cream sauce that ties everything together.
It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug, but with layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more. This recipe is a great way to elevate a weeknight meal while keeping it approachable, and it’s just as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.
To achieve the creamiest sauce, make sure to use full-fat cream and allow it to reduce on low heat. This will give you that velvety texture that turns this dish into a showstopper.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to treat yourself, this dish combines familiar flavors with a comforting twist. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home but with a hint of sophistication. If you love creamy pasta dishes with just the right balance of richness, this one will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Be Hooked?
- The creamy sauce is rich but balanced, making every bite feel indulgent without being overwhelming.
- It’s the perfect combination of protein, vegetables, and pasta, making it a complete, satisfying meal in one bowl.
- I’ve made this dish countless times, tweaking the ingredients to match what I have on hand, and it’s always a hit.
- The broccoli adds just the right amount of freshness, making it the ideal veggie to bring some lightness to the creamy richness.
- It’s a versatile recipe, so you can switch up the protein or veggies based on your preferences, ensuring it’s never boring.
Broccoli Chicken Penne Recipe
Equipment
- Knife for chopping
- Cutting board
- Pasta pot
- Deep skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 oz cream cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about ¾" cubes, and set aside.
- Chop broccoli into florets, halving larger pieces if necessary.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, add ½ teaspoon of salt, and cook penne pasta over medium heat until al dente.
- Add the broccoli to the pasta water in the last 4 minutes of cooking.
- Once the broccoli is tender and vibrant green, remove and set aside.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a deep skillet, melt olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook until browned, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 3 minutes.
- Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
- Whisk together milk and cornstarch, then slowly pour into the skillet, stirring often until the sauce thickens.
- Add pasta water gradually if the sauce becomes too thick, then stir in cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli.
- Mix gently to coat, and garnish with Parmesan, chopped parsley, or toasted breadcrumbs.
Notes
- You can substitute penne with any pasta shape of your choice.
- For extra flavor, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Ensure to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 576kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 54g |
| Fibre | 3g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Protein | 41g |
| Cholesterol | 114g |