Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Imagine twirling your fork through tender Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, where each bite delivers velvety sauce-coated pasta, juicy chicken chunks, and perfectly crisp-tender broccoli florets. This comforting pasta dish combines everyday ingredients into something truly special, striking the perfect balance between indulgent and nourishing. The Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne has become a weeknight favorite in countless homes because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. You’ll learn how to create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to every ridge of the penne, cook chicken to juicy perfection, and maintain broccoli’s vibrant color and satisfying bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne recipe stands out as a versatile crowd-pleaser that satisfies both comfort food cravings and the desire for something nutritious. The contrast between the al dente penne, tender chicken pieces, and slightly crisp broccoli creates a delightful textural experience in every forkful. The sauce is the true star – rich and velvety without being too heavy, coating each piece of pasta perfectly without pooling at the bottom of your plate.

What makes this chicken broccoli pasta dish truly special is its adaptability. It’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. The ingredients are likely already in your pantry and refrigerator, eliminating the need for a special shopping trip. Plus, it’s a clever way to incorporate vegetables into a meal that even the pickiest eaters will devour without complaint.

The balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables makes this a complete meal in one pot, reducing cleanup time and making it perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying without hours of kitchen work.

Ingredients

For this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 1½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups (280g) fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1½ tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

The Parmesan cheese adds a nutty depth that elevates the cream sauce, while fresh broccoli provides the perfect texture contrast to the tender pasta and chicken. Opt for whole milk rather than skim for a richer sauce that adheres beautifully to the penne’s ridges. The combination of chicken broth and cream creates the perfect balance of flavor and silkiness.

Pro Tips

Properly Cook the Pasta: For the perfect Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package directions indicate. The slightly undercooked pasta (very al dente) will finish cooking in the sauce, allowing it to absorb more flavor while preventing it from becoming mushy. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining – this starchy liquid is liquid gold for adjusting the consistency of your sauce later.

Master the Roux Technique: The foundation of your creamy sauce is a proper roux. Melt the butter completely over medium heat, then add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until it smells slightly nutty but hasn’t browned. This cooking process eliminates the raw flour taste while creating the perfect thickening agent. When adding liquids, pour them in gradually while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

Perfect Chicken Texture: For juicy chicken pieces that remain tender throughout, avoid overcrowding the pan when searing. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, as crowding causes the meat to steam rather than sear, resulting in rubbery texture. Season the chicken before cooking and allow it to develop a golden crust before turning. This not only improves texture but creates flavorful fond (browned bits) on the pan that will enhance your sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil for your penne. While waiting, prep your ingredients by cutting the chicken into even 1-inch cubes and trimming the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Having everything ready before you start cooking ensures the process flows smoothly and nothing overcooks while you’re busy chopping.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Add the penne to the boiling water and cook for 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. During the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. This clever technique blanches the broccoli perfectly while saving you from washing an extra pot. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together. The broccoli should be bright green and slightly tender but still with some bite.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot pan in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle the flour over the butter-garlic mixture and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps, followed by the milk. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 5: Finish the Dish
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the cheese to melt completely, creating a smooth, velvety sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta and broccoli. Gently fold everything together until well coated with sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve
Let the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne rest for 2-3 minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to further thicken and the flavors to meld. Serve in warmed bowls topped with additional grated Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper for a restaurant-quality presentation that’s sure to impress.

Variations

Vegetable Packed Penne: Transform your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne into a garden-fresh delight by adding more vegetables. Bell peppers, asparagus, peas, or spinach make excellent additions. Simply sauté firmer vegetables with the chicken or add leafy greens like spinach in the final few minutes of cooking. This variation increases the nutritional value while adding vibrant colors and complementary flavors to the creamy base.

Seafood Twist: For a luxurious coastal version, substitute the chicken with 1 pound of large shrimp or chunks of salmon. Shrimp cooks much faster than chicken (about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque), while salmon can be seared and flaked into the pasta. The seafood pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating an elegant dinner option perfect for special occasions or date nights at home.

Dairy-Free Alternative: Create a dairy-free version of this pasta dish using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, plant-based butter, and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. The coconut cream provides similar richness without the dairy, while nutritional yeast offers that savory, cheesy flavor. This adaptation maintains the creamy texture and comforting quality of the original while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Storage and Serving

Store leftover Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken considerably when chilled, but don’t worry – when reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat rather than in the microwave, which can make the sauce separate and the pasta mushy.

For an elegant presentation, serve this pasta in wide, shallow bowls that showcase the colorful ingredients. Garnish with a light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a few turns of black pepper, and perhaps a small sprig of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cream sauce.

This dish also makes an excellent meal prep option – portion cooled pasta into individual containers for quick lunches throughout the week. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month, though be aware the texture of the broccoli may soften upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne recipe. There’s no need to thaw it first; simply add it directly to the sauce during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. Be aware that frozen broccoli is already blanched, so it requires less cooking time than fresh to prevent it from becoming mushy.

How can I make this recipe lighter?
To create a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use part-skim mozzarella in place of some of the Parmesan. You can also increase the ratio of broccoli to pasta and use whole wheat penne for added fiber.

Can I make this ahead of time for a dinner party?
Yes, but prepare it slightly differently. Cook everything up to the point of combining the sauce with the pasta, then cool and refrigerate the components separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce until bubbling, adding a little extra milk if needed, then toss with the pasta and broccoli and heat through for about 5 minutes.

What can I substitute for the heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use equal parts cream cheese and milk whisked together until smooth. This creates a similar richness and texture while adding a subtle tanginess to the sauce.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
For an extra flavor boost, add 1/4 cup of white wine before the chicken broth, or incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of pesto into the finished sauce. A pinch of nutmeg or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard also works wonders to enhance the depth of flavor.

Conclusion

This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is comfort food at its finest — a harmonious blend of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli all enveloped in a silky, Parmesan-infused sauce. It’s the kind of dish that transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into special occasions, satisfying both sophisticated palates and picky eaters alike. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved homemade meal, this pasta recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with straightforward techniques. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation!

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