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Creamy Broccoli & Chicken Penne – Cozy, Creamy & Ready in 30 Minutes

This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is everything you want in a hearty pasta dish: perfectly cooked penne pasta, golden seared chicken, and bright green broccoli florets all coated in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to become a family favorite! 🍝✨
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 🍝 Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
🥣 Cream Sauce
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp flour optional for thicker sauce
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes optional for heat
🌿 Optional Garnish
  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • Extra grated parmesan

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Colander
  • Mixing spoon
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cook Pasta & Broccoli
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  3. Add penne pasta; cook according to package instructions.
  4. Add broccoli in the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking time.
  5. Drain pasta and broccoli; set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
  1. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken; season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  4. Add minced garlic; sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to medium.
  2. Melt butter in the skillet; whisk in flour if using and cook 1 minute.
  3. Slowly stir in chicken broth; cook 2 minutes.
  4. Add cream; simmer until slightly thickened (3–4 minutes).
  5. Stir in parmesan until melted and sauce is smooth.
  6. Add red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.
Step 4: Combine Everything
  1. Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with chicken and sauce.
  2. Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Divide into bowls; top with parsley and extra parmesan.
  2. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

🥄 Variations
Lighter Version: Use milk instead of cream.
Cheesy Twist: Add mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Veggie Boost: Stir in mushrooms or spinach.
Low-Carb: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
Reheat: Microwave or warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream.
Freezer: Not recommended; sauce may separate.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes—skip cooking chicken and stir in shredded rotisserie chicken in Step 4.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Definitely—just add directly to boiling pasta water.
What pasta works best?
Penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or plant-based cream and cheese.
How do I make it extra creamy?
Add more cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
Can I meal prep it?
Yes—portion into containers for quick lunches.
What herbs pair well?
Basil, thyme, or Italian seasoning.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Whisk in flour or cornstarch slurry.
What protein alternatives work?
Shrimp, sausage, or tofu.
Can kids eat this?
Absolutely—it’s mild, creamy, and kid-approved.
🏁 Conclusion
This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is quick, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal everyone will love! 🍗🥦🍝