Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is a delightful dish that brings comfort food to the forefront. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals, providing a creamy, savory flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli enveloped in a rich sauce makes it not just delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce combined with garlic and Italian seasoning creates an irresistible taste that pleases every palate.
• Versatile Meal: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences, making it adaptable for various diets.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting classic, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chicken and broccoli, it provides a good balance of protein and vitamins.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this dish easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the penne pasta evenly without sticking.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the chicken and creating the creamy sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps in mixing ingredients smoothly without scratching cookware.

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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
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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: Cook 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 heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

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

Step 4: Add Cheeses

Add grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and remaining Italian seasoning. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and thickened. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 5: Combine Everything

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

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you like before serving warm.

Enjoy your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Serving Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that can elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the creamy pasta perfectly, providing a crunchy texture and aromatic flavor.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and adds a crisp element to your meal.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Extra Cheese: Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top for an extra creamy and cheesy finish that enhances the dish’s flavor.

Serve with Steamed Veggies

• Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal veggies like green beans or carrots for added nutrition and color on the plate.

Offer Red Pepper Flakes

• Red Pepper Flakes: Provide these on the side for guests who enjoy a bit of heat in their creamy chicken and broccoli penne.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds freshness and brightens up the dish visually as well as flavor-wise.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne involves attention to detail during preparation. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality chicken enhance the dish’s flavor significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta just right ensures it holds its shape and provides a nice bite in every forkful.
• Sauté Garlic Gently: Sautéing garlic only until fragrant prevents it from burning, which can make your sauce taste bitter.
• Incorporate Cheese Gradually: Stir in cheeses slowly to achieve a smoother sauce without clumps.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning at the end for balanced flavors.
• Let It Sit Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Looking to round out your meal? Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair wonderfully with Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese offers a classic touch.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized provide a delicious contrast to creamy pasta.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing appetizer.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled to perfection add elegance and complement the dish nicely.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that pairs well with rich pasta dishes.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn cooked simply enhances summer vibes while offering sweetness to balance savory flavors.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, vegetables, or ground turkey make for an eye-catching addition to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne, there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s quality. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the penne too long can lead to mushy pasta. Always check for al dente, which should have a slight bite.
• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken or sauce can make your dish bland. Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance flavors.
• Not using enough cream: A lack of heavy cream can result in a thin sauce. Make sure to measure correctly for that rich, creamy texture.
• Adding cold ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese directly from the fridge can cause lumps in your sauce. Let it come to room temperature for smoother incorporation.
• Crowding the skillet: Overcrowding the pan when cooking chicken can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for perfect golden pieces.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Frozen leftovers will be best within 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne.

Can I use other vegetables in Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne healthier?

You can substitute whole wheat penne for regular pasta and reduce the amount of cream by using Greek yogurt as a base instead.

Can I prepare Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and simply reheat when ready to serve.

What kind of cheese works best with Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne?

Parmesan is classic; however, you can also try cheddar or fontina for different flavor profiles.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a tasty vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe allows you to customize it according to your preferences by swapping out proteins or adding more veggies. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!