The aroma of creamy pasta wafting through the kitchen always brings a sense of comfort, doesn’t it? Imagine a bowl of tender penne pasta enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with bright green broccoli and juicy chunks of chicken. Honestly, just thinking about it makes my mouth water! I first whipped up this Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne during one of those busy weeknights when I needed something quick that everyone would love. And let me tell you, it was a hit with my picky eaters!
This dish is not just delicious; it’s practical too. You know how tough it is to get kids (and some adults) to eat their veggies? Well, with this creamy sauce, broccoli becomes a star player rather than an afterthought. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful meal that satisfies even the fussiest of eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without the complaints! Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal prep for the week, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, if you’re looking for a dish that checks all the boxes: easy, creamy, delicious, and family-approved, you’ve found it! Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me share a few reasons why this Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is bound to become your new favorite:
- Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights or last-minute cravings.
- Simple Ingredients: You won’t need any fancy ingredients—just pantry staples and a few fresh items that you likely already have on hand.
- Perfect for Picky Eaters: The creamy sauce and familiar flavors make it an instant favorite for kids and adults alike.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish always garners compliments.
- Unbelievably Delicious: The blend of creamy cheese and tender chicken with crunchy broccoli is comfort food at its finest.
This recipe stands out from the rest because of its creamy sauce that’s made without any heavy cream, making it a bit lighter while still rich and satisfying. Plus, the method of cooking the chicken directly with the pasta means less cleanup and more flavor as everything melds together beautifully.
Let’s face it: meals should be about more than just fueling your body—they should be enjoyed. This Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is the kind of dish that makes you smile and feel content after each bite. It’s perfect for impressing guests without any stress, or simply turning a regular weeknight dinner into something special!
Ingredients Needed
This Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver flavor without the fuss:
- For the pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- For the chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the creamy sauce:
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups (150 g) broccoli florets
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies your family enjoys, like spinach, peas, or even cherry tomatoes! This dish is designed to be flexible and accommodating for different tastes.
Equipment Needed
To make this Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:
- Large pot (for boiling the pasta)
- Colander (for draining the pasta)
- Skillet or large saucepan (for cooking the chicken and sauce)
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Measuring cups and spoons
If you don’t have a skillet, a saucepan works just as well. And don’t fret if you’re on a budget; even the most basic tools can get the job done!
Preparation Method
Ready to whip up this delicious dish? Follow these simple steps:
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the diced chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Steam the broccoli: In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and chicken broth. Cover and steam for about 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Make the sauce: Remove the lid and pour in the milk. Stir to combine. Gradually add in the mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Add in the cooked chicken and stir to combine.
- Combine: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
And there you have it! A delicious, creamy, and satisfying meal ready in no time. Plus, don’t forget to check the chicken for doneness to avoid any surprises!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are some tips to ensure success with your Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of your sauce.
- Season in layers: Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning at each step to build depth of flavor.
- Don’t skip the sauté: Browning the chicken adds flavor—so let it get a nice golden color before adding other ingredients.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, depending on what your family enjoys.
Trust me, experimenting a bit can lead to delightful variations!
Variations & Adaptations
This recipe is versatile, so feel free to mix it up! Here are a few ideas:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond or coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
- Protein Swaps: Try shredded rotisserie chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Seasonal Veggies: In summer, add in fresh zucchini or peas for a burst of color and flavor.
Each variation brings a new twist to this classic dish, ensuring it never gets boring!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
For serving, I recommend plating the pasta hot and garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a simple side salad to round out the meal.
As for storage, if you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
This Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 15g
Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, while chicken provides lean protein, making this dish a balanced option. Plus, it’s a great way to get your family to enjoy their veggies!
Conclusion
In summary, this Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings families together. Its creamy texture, delicious flavors, and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for any busy night.
Don’t hesitate to customize it based on your family’s preferences—after all, that’s what makes cooking fun! I love making this dish because it’s always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s great for leftovers too.
If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turned out! I’d love to hear your thoughts or any variations you tried. Happy cooking!
FAQs
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare everything and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when ready to serve.
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Just add it to the skillet at the same time as the chicken broth.
- What can I substitute for the penne pasta? You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or fusilli!
- Is this recipe gluten-free? To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to add in your favorite veggies for added nutrition and flavor.
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Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a comforting dish featuring tender penne pasta in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with broccoli and chicken. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for picky eaters.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, season the diced chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and chicken broth. Cover and steam for about 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Remove the lid and pour in the milk. Stir to combine. Gradually add in the mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Add in the cooked chicken and stir to combine.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies your family enjoys, like spinach or peas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Protein: 30
Keywords: creamy pasta, chicken penne, broccoli recipe, family dinner, quick meal
