Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This creamy pasta combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich cheeses, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The balance of flavors and textures will impress your family and friends while being simple enough for any home cook to master.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and melted cheeses creates a luscious sauce that clings to each piece of pasta.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey or add other vegetables to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the fuss.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for boiling the penne pasta and ensuring it cooks evenly.
• Skillet: A good skillet allows you to sauté chicken and create the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Colander: Draining the pasta properly ensures you achieve the right texture without overcooking.
• Wooden spoon: This tool helps in mixing ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Seasoning

• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain everything together and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir in cream cheese until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning into the sauce. Stir until everything is creamy and thick. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 5: Mix it All Together

Toss in cooked pasta, broccoli florets, and chicken into the sauce. Stir until everything is well coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Serving Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Basil Leaves: For an aromatic touch, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top before serving.

Add a Crunchy Topping

• Breadcrumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and garlic offer a delightful crunch when sprinkled on top of the pasta.
• Crushed Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pine nuts can provide a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad balances the richness of the penne with its crisp greens and tangy dressing.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and complements the creamy dish well.

Serve in Individual Portions

• Pasta Bowls: Presenting the penne in individual bowls makes for an elegant serving option, perfect for gatherings or dinner parties.
• Mason Jars: For a fun twist, layer the pasta in mason jars for a portable meal option.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Creating the perfect Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish further:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and broccoli for better flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning gradually to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the penne is cooked al dente for the best texture; it should have a slight bite to it.
• Incorporate Cheese Slowly: Add cheeses gradually while stirring to create a smoother sauce without lumps.
• Experiment with Spices: Consider adding other spices like garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth of flavor.
• Store Properly for Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Complementing your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and color to your plate.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables provides great flavors that pair well with pasta.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a nice crunch and contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
5. Caprese Salad: The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil creates a refreshing side that complements rich flavors.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad acts as a refreshing palate cleanser after enjoying creamy pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne truly delicious, avoid these common mistakes.

• Overcooking the pasta: Always cook the penne until it’s al dente. This ensures it maintains its texture when combined with the sauce.
• Skipping the seasoning: Properly seasoning each component, including chicken and pasta, enhances flavor. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning!
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and garlic elevate the dish’s taste. If you use frozen broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained.
• Rushing the sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps flavors meld. Don’t rush this step; patience pays off for a creamy texture.
• Ignoring garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheese adds a finishing touch that brightens the dish. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten it up, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or reduce the amount of cheese.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can mix in vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can replace cream cheese with more heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Is Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or protein options. Its creamy sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, making it a meal everyone will love. Give it a try today!