Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne

This creamy broccoli and chicken penne combines tender pieces of sautéed chicken with perfectly cooked pasta and crisp broccoli florets, all united by a silky Parmesan cream sauce. The dish comes together in just 40 minutes and requires minimal cleanup thanks to its one-pot approach. Each forkful delivers a comforting blend of savory flavors and satisfying textures that make this recipe ideal for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.

I first created this dish when my sister unexpectedly brought friends over for dinner. With just pantry staples and some chicken in the fridge, I threw this together and now it's requested at every family gathering. The way the creamy sauce clings to every piece of pasta makes it impossible to resist going back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite sized pieces for quick even cooking and tender results
• Penne pasta which holds the creamy sauce perfectly in its tubular shape
• Fresh broccoli florets providing color nutrition and a pleasant textural contrast
• Olive oil for sautéing the good quality extra virgin adds subtle flavor
• Garlic freshly minced delivers aromatic depth that bottled versions simply cannot match
• Heavy cream creates the luxurious base for our sauce avoid substituting with milk for best results
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce always grate your own
• Salt and pepper to taste freshly ground pepper makes a noticeable difference
• Reserved pasta water the secret ingredient that helps bind the sauce to the pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until just al dente typically 9 to 11 minutes. Before draining reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water which will help create a silky sauce later. Drain pasta but do not rinse as the starch helps the sauce adhere.

Prepare the Chicken

While pasta cooks heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Season diced chicken generously with salt and pepper then add to the hot pan in a single layer giving pieces room to breathe. Allow chicken to develop a golden crust before stirring about 3 minutes. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until chicken is cooked through to 165°F with no pink remaining.

Add Aromatics and Vegetables

Add minced garlic to the pan with the chicken and stir continuously for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned as burnt garlic turns bitter. Immediately add broccoli florets and toss everything together. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until broccoli turns vibrant green and is crisp tender. Test a piece with a fork it should pierce easily but still have some resistance.

Create the Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the skillet stirring gently to incorporate all the flavors from the bottom of the pan. Allow cream to come to a gentle simmer not boil for about 2 minutes until slightly reduced. Gradually sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan while stirring continuously to prevent clumping. The sauce will begin to thicken as the cheese melts if it becomes too thick add splashes of reserved pasta water until reaching your desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently until every piece is well coated. Let everything cook together for about 1 minute allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately in warmed bowls topped with extra grated Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is watching the Parmesan slowly melt into the cream creating little rivers of cheesy goodness throughout the sauce. The first time I made this for my husband, he immediately declared it was going into our regular dinner rotation, and five years later, it still appears on our table at least twice a month.

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy chicken and broccoli penne can be prepared up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revitalize the sauce as it tends to thicken when chilled. For best results, warm it gently on the stovetop rather than in the microwave, which can cause the cream sauce to separate. If you find the pasta has absorbed much of the sauce during storage, add a small amount of chicken broth while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

Smart Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. For a lighter version, substitute half and half for heavy cream, though expect a slightly thinner sauce. Whole wheat or gluten-free penne works wonderfully for those with dietary preferences or restrictions. No fresh broccoli? Frozen florets work fine just thaw and pat dry before adding to avoid excess water. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or simply add extra vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus. Turkey or rotisserie chicken can easily stand in for the chicken breasts when time is limited.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty pasta dish shines as a standalone meal, but pairing it with sides elevates the dining experience. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil provides a peppery contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up every last bit of the luxurious sauce. For a special occasion, start with an antipasto platter or bruschetta before serving this as your main course. A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or light Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Cultural Context

This creamy pasta dish draws inspiration from classic Italian American cuisine, where comfort meets simplicity. Unlike traditional Italian pasta preparations that often use lighter sauces, this richer version evolved in American kitchens where abundance of ingredients like cream and cheese allowed for more indulgent preparations. The addition of protein and vegetables to create a complete meal in one dish reflects the practical nature of American home cooking. While purists might argue about authenticity, this fusion style has earned its own respected place in culinary traditions, satisfying generations of families looking for hearty, approachable meals.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time, though it's best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, slightly undercook the pasta and broccoli, as they'll continue cooking when reheated. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce, as it will thicken considerably when chilled.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce won't be quite as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, full-fat coconut milk works well, though it will add a subtle coconut flavor. Cashew cream is another excellent dairy-free option that maintains creaminess without altering the flavor profile significantly.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, but the texture won't be as pleasant. If using frozen, don't thaw it first—add it directly to the pan, but reduce the sautéing time to prevent overcooking. Fresh broccoli provides better texture and color, giving you that desirable tender-crisp bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and soft pasta.

→ How can I add more flavor to this dish?

To enhance flavor, try adding Italian herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat. For depth, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions. A splash of white wine or chicken broth during the sauce-making stage adds complexity. For brightness, finish with lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

→ What sides pair well with this pasta dish?

This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette makes an excellent accompaniment for sauce-mopping. For a more substantial meal, consider roasted vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy flavors perfectly.

→ How can I make this dish more nutritious?

To boost nutrition, use whole wheat penne for added fiber. Increase the vegetable content by adding spinach, peas, or bell peppers alongside the broccoli. For protein variation, incorporate white beans or replace some chicken with tofu. Use milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of Parmesan while adding nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor with less fat.