Description
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This quick recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when you crave something delicious yet satisfying. The blend of garlic and Italian seasoning enhances the flavors, creating a meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether served with garlic bread or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 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 cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; add broccoli during the last two minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden brown (5-6 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and chicken broth; stir in cream cheese until smooth.
- Incorporate Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses into the sauce until thickened; season to taste.
- Toss cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken into the sauce until well-coated.
- Garnish with parsley before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider mixing in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Substitute whole wheat penne for an extra fiber boost.