Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Creamy broccoli chicken penne: just the name itself conjures up images of a comforting, satisfying meal, doesn’t it? I remember the first time I tasted this dish – it was at a small Italian trattoria, and the rich, cheesy aroma alone was enough to draw me in. But the taste? Absolutely divine! It was love at first bite, and I knew I had to recreate this magic at home.

While penne pasta itself has a rich history rooted in the Liguria region of Italy, the addition of broccoli and chicken, bathed in a creamy sauce, speaks to a more modern, globally-inspired take on Italian cuisine. It’s a testament to how culinary traditions evolve and adapt, incorporating new flavors and ingredients to create something truly special.

So, why is creamy broccoli chicken penne such a crowd-pleaser? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly delicious! The tender chicken, slightly al dente penne, and vibrant broccoli florets create a delightful textural contrast. Then there’s the creamy sauce – oh, that sauce! It’s rich, decadent, and coats every single piece of pasta, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. Beyond the taste, it’s also a relatively quick and easy meal to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a dish that satisfies both your cravings and your need for convenience. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
• For the Creamy Broccoli Sauce:
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk or 2% recommended for richness)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• For the Pasta:
• 1 lb penne pasta
• Water for boiling
• Salt for pasta water
• Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Preparing the Chicken

Okay, let’s start with the chicken! This is a super simple step, but it’s crucial for adding a delicious protein element to our creamy pasta dish. I like to use chicken breasts, but you could also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. Just make sure they’re boneless and skinless for easy cooking.

1. Cube the Chicken: First, take your chicken breasts and cut them into 1-inch cubes. This size is perfect because it cooks quickly and evenly, and it’s easy to eat with the pasta.
2. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece of chicken is nicely coated with the spices. This is where the flavor party starts!
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. We’ll add it back in later.

Making the Creamy Broccoli Sauce

Now for the star of the show: the creamy broccoli sauce! This is where the magic happens. Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than you think. The key is to whisk constantly to avoid lumps and to use good quality cheese for the best flavor.

1. Cook the Broccoli: There are a couple of ways to cook the broccoli. You can steam it, boil it, or even roast it. I prefer to steam it because it retains more nutrients and doesn’t get too soggy. To steam, fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Alternatively, you can boil the broccoli for about 3-5 minutes. If you choose to roast, toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, set the broccoli aside.
2. Make the Roux: In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (no need to wash it!), melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which is the base of our creamy sauce. Make sure to cook the roux long enough to cook out the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown too much.
3. Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure to whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, cheese is already salty, so start with a small amount of salt and add more as needed.
5. Incorporate the Broccoli: Gently fold in the cooked broccoli florets into the creamy sauce. Make sure the broccoli is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
6. Add the Heavy Cream: Stir in the heavy cream for extra richness and creaminess. This step is optional, but it really takes the sauce to the next level.

Cooking the Pasta

While you’re working on the sauce, let’s get the pasta cooking. Penne is my go-to for this dish because its ridges hold the sauce beautifully, but you can use any pasta you like. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when you mix it with the sauce.

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
2. Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well in a colander. Don’t rinse the pasta, as the starch helps the sauce cling to it.

Assembling the Dish

Now for the best part: putting it all together! This is where all your hard work pays off. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal.

1. Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Chicken: Add the drained pasta and the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy broccoli sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
2. Serve: Serve the creamy broccoli chicken penne immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few extra tips and variations to make this recipe your own:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Fontina, or Mozzarella.
• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier dish.
• Add Protein: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, sausage, or tofu.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken for a delicious vegetarian meal.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before adding the pasta and chicken.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this creamy broccoli chicken penne as much as I do! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This creamy broccoli chicken penne isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight meal that I genuinely believe you’ll fall in love with. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and the vibrant green of the broccoli, all enveloped in that luscious, creamy sauce, is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that satisfies both your cravings and your need for a quick and wholesome dinner.

But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and dietary needs. Not a fan of penne? Swap it out for rotini, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta. Want to add more vegetables? Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would be fantastic additions. And if you’re looking to lighten things up, you can use light cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a complete meal: Serve this creamy broccoli chicken penne with a side salad and some crusty bread for dipping into that delicious sauce.
* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
* Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
* Leftovers: This dish is even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* Broccoli Boost: For an even more intense broccoli flavor, try roasting the broccoli florets before adding them to the sauce. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli and adds a delightful caramelized note.
* Chicken Alternatives: Feel free to substitute the chicken breast with leftover rotisserie chicken or even cooked turkey for a quicker preparation.
* Creamy Garlic Bread Pairing: Serve alongside some homemade creamy garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food experience. Simply mix softened butter with minced garlic, herbs, and a touch of cream cheese, spread it on slices of baguette, and bake until golden brown.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser, it’s easy to make, and it’s endlessly customizable. It’s the perfect dish for a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend dinner, or even a potluck gathering.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll be amazed by how delicious and satisfying this creamy broccoli chicken penne is.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? Did you add any special ingredients? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, I’m always happy to help. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!