Description
Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a comforting pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and penne pasta in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for weeknights and versatile enough to please a crowd, this dish is both nourishing and indulgent, ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente. In the last 2–3 minutes, add broccoli. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sear chicken with salt and pepper until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk (and cream, if using). Simmer until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Add reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to skillet. Toss to coat in sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with herbs and lemon zest if desired. Serve hot with extra Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes