Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

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There’s something about creamy pasta dishes that speaks straight to the soul, and this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne has become one of my favorite comfort meals to whip up on a busy evening. The first time I tossed this dish together, I didn’t expect it to become such a staple. But the tender chunks of chicken, perfectly al dente penne, and vibrant broccoli all cloaked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce made it an instant hit in my kitchen.

I always find myself returning to this recipe when I need something that tastes indulgent but feels like a wholesome, balanced meal. The broccoli brings a fresh, slightly crisp contrast to the velvety sauce, while the chicken adds that savory bite that makes every forkful satisfying. And let’s be honest, pasta drenched in creamy sauce is never a bad idea. This one hits all the right notes—flavor, texture, and ease.

What makes this pasta special for me is that it’s endlessly versatile. I’ve tried swapping the proteins, changing up the vegetables, and even sneaking in some heat with a pinch of chili flakes. But I always come back to this original combo when I want comfort in a bowl.

You can find similar comforting pasta dishes like my creamy beef and shells or this super cozy stovetop creamy ground beef pasta if you’re looking to try other variations.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

This dish has everything you want in a satisfying dinner: rich flavor, hearty ingredients, and a texture combination that keeps every bite interesting. It’s easy to make, comes together quickly, and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, it tastes just as amazing the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping lunches for the week, or impressing guests on a casual night in, this recipe delivers. With its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and vibrant pops of green from the broccoli, this penne pasta is more than just dinner—it’s a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

Penne Pasta
This is the heart of the dish, giving it that satisfying bite and acting as the perfect vessel for the creamy sauce to cling to. Penne’s hollow shape captures the sauce in each tube, delivering full flavor in every bite.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
Lean and protein-rich, chicken breasts cook up quickly and soak in the creamy flavors of the sauce beautifully. They make the dish hearty without being heavy.

Fresh Broccoli Florets
Adding color, texture, and nutrients, broccoli cuts through the richness with a fresh crunch. It complements the creamy elements while balancing out the heaviness of the sauce.

Heavy Cream
The base of the luxurious sauce. It creates that rich, smooth texture that binds all the ingredients together in comfort-food harmony.

Garlic
Just a few cloves go a long way in infusing the entire dish with deep, savory flavor. It brings warmth and aroma that elevate the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese
Melted into the sauce, Parmesan adds a salty, nutty sharpness that gives depth to the creaminess.

Olive Oil & Butter
Used for sautéing the chicken and garlic, this combo adds richness and enhances the overall flavor base of the sauce.

Salt and Black Pepper
Seasoning is key. A generous pinch of both ensures every layer of this pasta is properly flavored.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

In the same skillet or a separate pot, steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. You want them vibrant green and just softened, not mushy.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add a touch more butter if needed, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently until warm. Slowly mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss in the cooked penne. Stir everything together and cook for another minute or two until everything is coated in the creamy sauce and warmed through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but is still delicious as leftovers.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

This recipe is a great canvas for creativity. If you’re out of penne, feel free to use rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Each pasta shape holds the creamy sauce differently but deliciously. Instead of chicken breast, you can try using chicken thighs for a more tender bite or even leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.

For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken entirely and bulk it up with mushrooms or extra broccoli. You could even add spinach or peas for more green goodness. If you’re out of heavy cream, a mix of half-and-half with a tablespoon of cream cheese can work in a pinch.

Want to make it a little lighter? Use milk instead of cream and cut back slightly on the Parmesan. The result will still be flavorful, just with a lighter texture. Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is quite filling on its own, but if you’re looking to make it a full meal, serve it with a crisp side salad—something with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemony vinaigrette pairs beautifully. A slice of garlic bread or a warm dinner roll makes for a comforting side that can mop up every bit of sauce.

For a beverage pairing, a glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the creamy flavors without overpowering them. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon works well to cut through the richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Let any leftovers cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

You can also reheat it in the microwave: cover the bowl loosely and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until hot. Avoid freezing this dish as the cream sauce may separate and change texture.

FAQs

How do I prevent the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese. Avoid boiling the sauce, and stir constantly for a smooth, stable texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli in Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?

Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Just steam or boil it separately and be sure to drain well before adding it to the dish.

How can I make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free pasta like chickpea or rice-based varieties, and check that your Parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Is Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne spicy?

Not at all! It’s mild and family-friendly. You can spice it up with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if desired.

Can I double the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe scales up easily. Just make sure to use a large enough skillet or pot to toss everything together comfortably.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, you won’t want to miss my creamy broccoli pasta which keeps things simple and all-veg. For something heartier, check out cheesy-baked tortellini with meat sauce, or the ultra-satisfying creamy ground beef alfredo pasta that brings richness to the next level.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Loved this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne? Be sure to save it to your dinner board on Pinterest so it’s always at your fingertips when you need an easy, crowd-pleasing meal. Don’t forget to share it on Facebook, Instagram, or even text it to a friend who loves pasta night as much as you do. Sharing recipes is one of the best ways to spread the joy of cooking—so go ahead, pass it on!

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