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This image shows a delicious plate of Broccoli Chicken Penne Pasta served on a white round plate, garnished with grated cheese, chopped cilantro, and fresh broccoli pieces for a flavorful and comforting meal.

Broccoli Chicken Penne Recipe

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne is a comforting pasta dish made with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and penne pasta, all coated in a creamy, rich sauce made from cream cheese, garlic, and a hint of Italian seasoning. Perfect for a delicious, satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 576 kcal

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.
    This image shows raw chicken breast being sliced into bite-sized pieces on a cutting board, preparing for cooking in the Broccoli Chicken Penne Pasta recipe.
  • 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.
    This image shows penne pasta being boiled in a large pot of water, cooking until tender and ready to be combined with chicken and broccoli.
  • Add the broccoli to the pasta water in the last 4 minutes of cooking.
    This image shows fresh broccoli florets being added to the boiling pasta water, allowing them to cook together for a well-balanced dish.
  • Once the broccoli is tender and vibrant green, remove and set aside.
  • Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
    This image shows a colander filled with freshly drained penne pasta and tender broccoli florets, ready to be mixed into the creamy sauce.
  • In a deep skillet, melt olive oil and butter over medium heat.
    This image shows butter and olive oil melting in a hot skillet, creating a flavorful base for cooking the seasoned chicken.
  • Add chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
    This image shows seasoned chicken pieces sizzling in a skillet, being cooked until golden brown and flavorful for the Broccoli Chicken Penne Pasta.
  • Cook until browned, then remove and set aside.
    This image shows fully cooked, golden-brown chicken pieces being removed from the skillet and set aside, ready to be added back into the pasta dish.
  • In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 3 minutes.
  • Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
    This image shows cream cheese being added to the skillet, melting into a rich and creamy sauce that will coat the pasta, chicken, and broccoli.
  • Whisk together milk and cornstarch, then slowly pour into the skillet, stirring often until the sauce thickens.
    This image shows pasta water being poured into the skillet, helping to adjust the consistency of the creamy sauce for a smooth and velvety texture.
  • Add pasta water gradually if the sauce becomes too thick, then stir in cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli.
    This image shows penne pasta, tender broccoli, and cooked chicken being mixed into the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is coated with rich, flavorful goodness.
  • Mix gently to coat, and garnish with Parmesan, chopped parsley, or toasted breadcrumbs.
    This image shows freshly grated Parmesan cheese being sprinkled over the creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne Pasta, adding a savory and delicious finishing touch.

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.