Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rich creamy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or a cozy night in. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Whip up this meal in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Goodness: The combination of heavy cream and cheeses creates a luscious sauce that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey or add other vegetables to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy it.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for an effortless meal throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essentials you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly and boiling broccoli at the same time.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce without needing multiple pans.

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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
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 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

Seasoning

• 1 tsp Italian 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 and Broccoli

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to enhance flavor. Once boiling:
1. Add the penne pasta to the pot.
2. Cook until al dente as per package instructions.
3. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets.
4. Drain both pasta and broccoli together; set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Season your chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet:
1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
3. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet used for chicken:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir well.
4. Blend in cream cheese until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add cheeses (Parmesan and mozzarella) along with Italian seasoning:
1. Stir continuously until sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
2. Adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Toss It All Together

Finally:
1. Add cooked pasta, broccoli, and sautéed chicken to the sauce.
2. Stir gently until everything is well coated in creamy goodness.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired before serving warm!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Serving Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this delightful pasta.

With a Side Salad

• Add a fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce, enhancing the meal’s flavor.

Grated Cheese Topping

• Offer extra grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top for those who love cheesy goodness.

Lemon Wedges

• Include lemon wedges on the plate for a zesty touch that brightens the rich flavors of the dish.

Red Pepper Flakes

• Provide crushed red pepper flakes at the table for guests who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and high-quality cheeses will enhance the overall taste of your dish.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure not to overcook the penne. It should be firm to bite, as it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream slowly until you reach your desired consistency.

• Season Generously: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.

• Garnish Right Before Serving: Add fresh parsley just before serving to keep its vibrant color and flavor intact.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne can complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a subtle crunch and bright color to your plate.

2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini enhances nutrition and flavor.

3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a creamy dressing that pairs well with the pasta’s richness.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside this pasta dish.

5. Bruschetta: Tomato bruschetta topped with basil makes for a fresh appetizer that balances out the creamy pasta.

6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an elegant side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the penne pasta too long will result in a mushy texture. Aim for al dente by following package instructions and adding broccoli during the last 2 minutes.

• Using low-quality cream: Using a low-fat or non-dairy alternative can affect the sauce’s creaminess. Opt for heavy cream for a rich and velvety sauce.

• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water can hinder sauce consistency. Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water to adjust sauce thickness if needed.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Eyeballing ingredients can lead to imbalances in flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts, especially with cheeses and liquids.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and safety.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in increments of 1 minute, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten up your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne, consider using half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative while maintaining flavor with herbs.

What can I use instead of chicken?

If you want to replace chicken, turkey breast is an excellent option that maintains similar textures and flavors.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various preferences. Feel free to customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!