Description
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort dish, blending golden seared chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and penne pasta in a garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, this high-protein, family-friendly meal is rich, satisfying, and easily customizable for all palates.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
2 cups penne rigate, uncooked
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Asiago)
¼ cup chicken broth (for steaming and deglazing)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: lemon juice or hot sauce for brightness
Instructions
Cook pasta: In salted boiling water, cook penne until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prep chicken and broccoli: Pat chicken dry and slice thinly. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets.
Sear chicken: In a hot skillet with olive oil, cook chicken for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Steam broccoli: In the same skillet, add a splash of chicken broth and broccoli. Cover and steam 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Make the sauce: Deglaze skillet with broth or white wine. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in cream, reduce heat, and whisk in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Combine: Return pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, lemon zest, or additional cheese.
Notes
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt to lighten the dish.
Use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free alternatives for dietary needs.
Add-ins like spinach, mushrooms, or red chili flakes work well.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently with milk or broth.
Freeze sauce separately for easier reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Inspired / Italian-Inspired
Keywords: creamy chicken broccoli pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, penne pasta dinner, weeknight meals, high-protein pasta dish, kid-friendly pasta