Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Penne

If you’re craving a comforting, luscious pasta dish that comes together quickly, then this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Penne is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pieces of chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked penne pasta all enveloped in a rich and garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. This recipe is the perfect weeknight dinner—simple enough for busy evenings but impressive enough to serve for guests. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The sauce is made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, creating a velvety texture that coats every bite.
• Balanced Flavors: Garlic and Italian seasoning add a fragrant, savory touch that complements the mild chicken and fresh broccoli.
• One-Pot Wonder: You cook the chicken and veggies in the same pan before adding the sauce, minimizing cleanup.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Broccoli adds a pop of green and essential vitamins, making the dish wholesome.
• Customizable: Easily swap out the penne for your favorite pasta or add in extras like mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.

What You’ll Gather

• 8 ounces penne pasta – al dente is best for this recipe.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing chicken and garlic.
• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces – ensures quick cooking and even flavor distribution.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – the star of the sauce, giving it that irresistible aroma.
• 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh or frozen, steamed just right.
• 1 cup heavy cream – the base of the creamy sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds sharp, salty depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – to season everything perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that brings it all together.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – brightens the dish with a fresh finish.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot – to boil the penne pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking chicken, broccoli, and sauce.
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping chicken and broccoli.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredients just right.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – perfect for stirring without scratching your pan.
• Colander – to drain your pasta once cooked.

Cooking Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Penne: The Process

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 9-11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and the 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic and Broccoli

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until just tender but still vibrant green. This step ensures the broccoli maintains a nice crunch and bright color.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan and pick up all those flavorful bits left behind. Let the cream simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Gradually stir in the 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, paired with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Replace penne pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to cut carbs.
• Use cauliflower florets in place of broccoli for a different texture and flavor.
• Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free creamy option.
• Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.

What Could Go Wrong

• Overcooked Pasta: Cooking the penne too long will make it mushy and unpleasant. Always aim for al dente.
• Burning Garlic: Garlic can quickly turn bitter if overcooked. Sauté just until fragrant.
• Dry Chicken: Cutting chicken into even, bite-sized pieces ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
• Too Thick or Thin Sauce: Adjust the sauce consistency by adding reserved pasta water or simmering longer to thicken.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This dish reheats beautifully and makes for great leftovers. Store any uneaten Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. For meal prep, portion out into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well here—just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet to avoid a watery sauce.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to maintain the creamy, cheesy flavor.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to eat, reheat and combine with the sauce and broccoli for best texture.

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?

To avoid splitting, keep the heat on medium to low when simmering the cream and cheese. Adding cheese gradually and stirring constantly helps maintain a smooth sauce.

What to Make After This

• Try the Spinach Parmesan Pasta With Chicken for a leafy green twist on creamy chicken pasta.
• Pair your meal with some Roasted Cumin Butter Broccoli for a flavorful vegetable side.
• For a comforting one-pot meal, check out One Pot Creamy Tomato Tortellini.

Save & Share

If you loved this recipe for Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Penne, bookmark it for easy access and share it with friends and family. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy nights or special occasions. Don’t forget to tag your photos when you make it—you might inspire someone else to create this creamy, garlicky delight!

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Penne is a delicious way to bring together simple ingredients into a dish that feels indulgent and satisfying. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, it hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a table full of guests, this recipe is sure to impress with minimal effort. Enjoy every bite!

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