I made this creamy broccoli and chicken penne last night and it disappeared so fast. It mix tender chicken, bright green broccoli, and penne pasta in a thick, creamy sauce. It taste amazing and kinda feels like a warm hug, perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals.

One thing that makes this recipe super popular is how easy it is to change up. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or friends who think they’re food critics, creamy broccoli and chicken penne can please everyone. The rich sauce brings all the flavors together, making each bite delicious. Plus, you get lean protein from the chicken, fibre and vitamins from the broccoli, and healthy fats from the cream, so it’s a pretty balanced meal. No wonder it showes up on so many dinner tables across the country.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Not only tasty is it, but easy too. The creamy sauce cover the al dente penne pasta and gives a smooth, luscious bite every time. The chicken is juicy and soft, and the broccoli adds a nice crunch. Seasonings can be altered to make it zingier or more mild, whatever you’re in the mood for.

It also don’t take long to cook—under 30 minutes from start to finish. One-pan cooking means less dishes to clean, wich is always a win. Even on your busiest weeknights, you can have dinner on the table fast.

From a health side, this dish is definately a winner. With protein from the chicken, fibre and essential vitamins from broccoli, and some fats from the cream, it gives you a well-rounded meal that fills you up and keeps you going.

Ingredients

To make creamy broccoli and chicken penne, you’ll need:

Penne pasta: This shape hold the sauce great.
Chicken breast or thighs: Lean breast keep it light, thighs add more flavor.
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen, it brings colour and nutrients.
Cream: Heavy cream gives richness; you can use half-and-half or coconut cream instead.
Garlic and onion: These aromatics boost the flavour.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for extra creaminess and depth.
Seasonings: Basic salt and pepper, plus any herbs or spices you like.

Optional add-ins:

Extra vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, or spinach can add colour and nutrition.
Protein swap: Try tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Fresh herbs: Basil or parsley on top brings a bright finish.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

This recipe can be done in less than half an hour, making it perfect for busy nights. Here’s a quick look:

Boil water and cook the penne pasta.
Season and sauté chicken pieces until golden.
Add onions, garlic, and broccoli and cook briefly.
Pour in cream and Parmesan to make a sauce.
Toss pasta with the sauce and serve.

Serve with a simple salad or garlic bread, and maybe a glass of white wine if you’re feeling fancy. A normal serving is about 1.5 cups per person.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a rolling boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente.
Drain the pasta but save a little pasta water for later.

Step 2: Preparing the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Season with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat some olive oil and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Adding Broccoli and Onions

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
Add broccoli florets and a splash of water; cover and steam until tender-crisp, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 4: Creating the Creamy Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce thickens a bit.
Season with extra herbs or spices if you like.

Step 5: Combining Ingredients

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until you get the right consistency.

Step 6: Serving the Dish

Plate the creamy broccoli and chicken penne and sprinkle more Parmesan or fresh herbs on top if you want.
Enjoy it hot, by itself or with a side.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Cooking Techniques

To keep chicken juicy, cook over medium heat and don’t crowd the pan or the chicken will steam instead of brown. Watch the broccoli so it stay bright green and not all mushy.

Sauce Tips

If you like your sauce thicker, let it simmer a bit longer. For a lighter sauce, use less cream or try Greek yogurt. You can even swap in Alfredo or béchamel sauce for variety.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to keep it smooth. Microwaving can make it heat unevenly and change the texture.

Variations on Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Different Pasta Types

Try gluten-free pasta like rice or lentil-based penne. Whole wheat penne adds a nutty flavor and more fibre, wich is a nice twist.

Usage of Different Proteins

Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey, or go plant-based with beans or vegan chicken. The dish still taste great.

Vegan Options

For a fully plant-based version, use coconut cream or cashew cream and vegan protein like tempeh or chickpeas. Nutritional yeast replaces Parmesan for that cheesy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can this dish be made in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it a day before and store in the fridge. The sauce may thicken when cold, so just add a bit of liquid when reheating.

How can I make it healthier?

Use lean chicken, reduce the cream, and add extra veggies for more fibre. A side salad helps round out the meal too.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Add frozen broccoli right to the pan without thawing. Just cook a bit longer so it heats through.

What can I serve with creamy broccoli and chicken penne?

A fresh salad adds crunch and garlic bread is great for sopping up sauce. A light white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs nicely.

Can I substitute the cream with something healthier?

You can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Just taste and adjust seasoning so it balances the slight tang.

Conclusion

All in all, creamy broccoli and chicken penne is a simple but flavorful dish that your family will love. It’s fast to make, can be tweaked for differnt diets, and gives you a balanced meal. Give it a try and see how you like to customize it!