There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta cloaked in a velvety, rich cream sauce. Add to that perfectly cooked penne, juicy chicken chunks, and tender broccoli florets, and you’ve got a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a one-pan wonder that’s ideal for weeknights when you need something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours at the stove.

This recipe strikes a beautiful balance between hearty and fresh. The lightly seared chicken provides a protein-packed punch, while the broccoli brings a pop of color and just the right hint of crunch. Tossed with a garlic-Parmesan cream sauce and perfectly al dente pasta, every forkful is rich with flavor, yet never too heavy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for a family dinner and elegant enough for casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Quick & Easy: Everything comes together in under 40 minutes, and most of the work is hands-off.
One-Pan Efficiency: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
Nutritious Comfort: A blend of protein, carbs, and veggies in every bite.
Customizable: You can easily swap in shrimp, mushrooms, spinach, or gluten-free pasta.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the creamy sauce and familiar flavors.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment – and Why They Matter

Before diving into the cooking, having the right tools prepped and within reach makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item plays an important role:

Large Skillet or Deep Sauté Pan: This is where most of the magic happens — from searing the chicken to simmering the sauce and tossing everything together. A wide surface area ensures even cooking and gives you space to combine everything at the end.
Medium Saucepot: You’ll boil the pasta here. Make sure it’s big enough for the penne to cook evenly without sticking together.
Colander: For draining the pasta and broccoli. Choose one with fine holes to avoid losing those small broccoli bits.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: A precise cut ensures uniform chicken cubes and evenly chopped broccoli, which helps everything cook at the same rate.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the cream sauce without scratching your pan.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For getting the right balance of cream, cheese, and seasoning.

Preparation Tips

Prep Ingredients First: Cut your chicken and broccoli before you start heating anything. The dish moves fast once cooking begins.
Use Room Temperature Chicken: Let the chicken sit out for 10–15 minutes before cooking. This helps it sear more evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside catches up.
Salt Your Pasta Water: Heavily salting your water is the first chance to season the pasta itself, which makes a big difference.
Slightly Undercook Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli until it’s bright green and still a bit crisp — it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, scoop out a cup of starchy water. This can be added to the sauce later to help bind everything together without thinning the cream too much.

Ingredients for This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

To make this creamy, flavorful dish, you’ll need a balanced combination of pantry staples, fresh produce, and dairy. The ingredients below serve approximately 4 people.

Main Ingredients:

12 oz penne pasta – Use regular or whole wheat; cook until al dente.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized cubes.
2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, chopped into small pieces.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth to the cream sauce.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Forms the base of the sauce.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
2 cups whole milk or half-and-half – For a rich and creamy texture.
1/2 cup heavy cream – Optional, for an extra luxurious sauce.
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, nutty flavor.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Season throughout for maximum flavor.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A subtle herbal background.
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) – For a slight kick of heat.

Optional Add-ins:

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Enhances the creamy notes.
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped – For garnish and freshness.
Zest of 1 lemon – Adds brightness and cuts through the richness.

Step 1: Cook the Penne and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until just al dente.
In the final 2–3 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time, toss in the broccoli florets. This lets them cook through without getting mushy.
Drain both the pasta and broccoli together, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Melt the butter.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in the milk (and heavy cream if using), ensuring no lumps remain.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 4: Add the Flavor

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using.
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken, penne, and broccoli to the skillet.
Gently toss everything in the sauce to coat evenly.
Cook over low heat for another 2–3 minutes, just to warm everything through and marry the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or lemon zest if desired.
Serve hot with extra grated Parmesan on top.

Notes

Broccoli Options: If using frozen broccoli, thaw it first and pat dry to prevent it from watering down the sauce.
Cream Variations: You can lighten the dish by using all milk instead of adding cream. Conversely, use all heavy cream for an ultra-decadent version.
Cheese Choices: Parmesan is classic, but Pecorino Romano adds a sharper, saltier edge. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses for best melting results.
Protein Swap: Grilled shrimp or rotisserie chicken can be subbed in for a quicker meal.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken entirely and double the broccoli or add mushrooms/spinach instead.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking Pasta: Remember, pasta continues to cook slightly when tossed with hot sauce. Stop at “al dente” to maintain texture.
Overcrowding the Pan: When searing the chicken, give it space to develop color. Crowding traps steam and causes it to steam rather than sear.
Using Cold Dairy: Adding cold milk or cream can cause the sauce to break. Let them come to room temp first, or warm them slightly before adding.
Skipping the Roux: The butter-flour roux is key to achieving a stable, creamy sauce. Don’t rush it or skip it.
Adding Cheese Too Early: Melt cheese into the sauce after it has thickened slightly and is off direct high heat to avoid clumping or curdling.
Forgetting to Taste and Adjust: Season at every stage—chicken, sauce, and final mix—to ensure a flavorful result.
Neglecting Pasta Water: That starchy water is your insurance policy against a dry sauce. Don’t forget to reserve it before draining!
Overcooking Broccoli: Bright green and slightly crisp is ideal—avoid turning it mushy.

What to Serve With Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right side dish can turn a great dinner into a memorable one. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself, these options add balance and variety to the meal.

8 Recommendations

Garlic Bread or Herb Focaccia
Warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the leftover cream sauce. A classic garlic butter topping or olive oil with rosemary gives it extra flair.
Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette
A crisp salad with arugula, romaine, or mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette or balsamic adds freshness and contrast to the creamy pasta.
Grilled or Roasted Asparagus
Earthy and tender asparagus spears lightly charred provide a great texture and flavor contrast.
Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with a balsamic glaze bring acidity and brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Lemon-Dill Roasted Zucchini
A quick veggie side that’s light and flavorful—especially good if you want to keep things on the healthy side.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Roasted until golden and caramelized, these make a hearty veggie side that complements the creamy sauce.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Bursting with natural sweetness and acidity, roasted tomatoes add a delightful pop on the side or even on top.
Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water with Citrus
If you’re sipping, go for a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If not, sparkling water with lemon or orange slices refreshes the palate beautifully.

Storage Instructions

Storing leftovers of Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is simple and helps you enjoy the dish again without losing its flavor or texture.

Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce.
Microwave Option: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Again, add a bit of liquid to keep it from drying out.
Freezing (Not Ideal): This dish isn’t the best candidate for freezing because cream sauces can separate upon thawing. If you must freeze, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat slowly and stir frequently to recombine the sauce.

Estimated Nutrition

Approximate values per serving (based on 4 servings total):

Calories: 610 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 5 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg
Sodium: 430 mg
Calcium: 280 mg
Iron: 2.4 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly based on ingredient brands and proportions used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of penne?

Yes! Fusilli, farfalle, rigatoni, or even spaghetti will all work well. Just make sure to cook them to al dente for the best texture.

2. Is it okay to use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Just chop or shred the chicken and stir it into the sauce toward the end, allowing it to heat through without drying out.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free penne and substitute the flour in the roux with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch slurry.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or clumpy?

Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously, and stir in the cheese after taking the sauce off direct high heat. Use pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.

5. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use just whole milk, though the sauce will be lighter. For richness without cream, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or more Parmesan.

6. How do I make this vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and bulk up with extra broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add chickpeas or white beans for protein.

7. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook and store the components (chicken, pasta, broccoli) separately and combine them with the sauce just before serving for best texture.

8. What if I want a spicier version?

Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir in a spoonful of chili garlic paste or hot sauce for a bold kick.

Conclusion

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is everything a satisfying pasta dinner should be—creamy, filling, and full of flavor, all while being refreshingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a table full of hungry guests, this dish delivers warmth and comfort with every bite. Plus, it’s endlessly flexible: swap ingredients, tweak the sauce, or change up the sides to keep it exciting week after week.