Looking for a simple, tasty dinner that packs a punch? You’re in the right place! This Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne recipe is not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish will please everyone at your table. Get ready to impress your family with a meal that’s both easy and delightful! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
To make Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne, gather these fresh ingredients. The penne pasta forms the base, while broccoli adds color and nutrients. The chicken provides protein, making this dish filling. Garlic and olive oil enhance flavors, while heavy cream and Parmesan create a rich sauce.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Servings: 4
This recipe is quick. In less than an hour, you can have a tasty meal for four. The prep time is just 20 minutes, and the cooking takes about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water bubbles, add the penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets directly to the pot. This keeps the broccoli bright and crisp. After cooking, drain the pasta and broccoli. Set them aside in a large bowl.
Searing the Chicken
Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the cubed chicken. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is brown and fully cooked.
Adding Garlic and Cream Sauce
Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir it well and cook for one more minute. This lets the garlic release its flavor. Then, pour in one cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
Combining Ingredients
Carefully add the drained penne and broccoli to the skillet. Toss the pasta and broccoli gently. Make sure everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. The colors should look vibrant and inviting.
Final Touches
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning. You can add more salt and pepper if you want. Serve the creamy chicken penne hot. Top it with fresh basil leaves for a lovely finish. Enjoy your meal! You can find the Full Recipe in the previous section.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Cooking
To avoid overcooking the broccoli, add it to the boiling pasta water in the last two minutes. This method keeps it bright green and crisp. Check for doneness by tasting a floret. It should be tender but still have a bite.
For perfectly cooked chicken, cut it into even cubes. This ensures even cooking. Sear the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often. It should be golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F for safety.
Enhancing Flavor
To elevate the taste, consider adding spices like red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also brighten the dish. Quality ingredients matter, especially cheese and cream. Choose a good Parmesan and fresh cream for a rich flavor.
Presentation Suggestions
For an appealing dish, serve your creamy broccoli chicken penne in shallow bowls. This allows the colors to shine. Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish. Fresh basil leaves add a pop of green and aroma. For added richness, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil just before serving. This makes your dish look and taste gourmet!
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can switch the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Both options add unique flavors. Shrimp cooks fast and gives a nice seafood taste. Just sauté it until it turns pink. For tofu, use firm tofu and cube it. Sauté until golden brown for a great texture and taste.
Vegetarian Option
To make a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use extra veggies. You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. For the creamy base, swap heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond or coconut milk. These options keep the dish rich while being plant-based.
Adding Extra Veggies
Adding more vegetables makes the dish even better. You can include carrots, peas, or zucchini. These veggies not only add flavor but also color. Try to use seasonal vegetables for the best taste. Fresh produce can make your Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne even more delightful. For the full recipe, check the earlier section!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne fresh, cool it quickly. Place leftovers in a shallow dish. This helps the heat escape faster. Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge. You can keep it there for up to three days. After that, the taste and texture may change.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat, reheat the pasta carefully. Use a skillet over low heat to warm it. Stir often to avoid hot spots. You can add a splash of cream or water if it seems dry. This helps keep the creamy texture. If you use the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir after each burst to ensure even heating. Enjoy your delightful meal!
FAQs
How can I make Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider these tips:
– Use whole grain penne for added fiber.
– Swap heavy cream for low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative.
– Reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat version.
– Add more vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers.
– Use grilled chicken instead of pan-fried for less fat.
Can I freeze Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Here’s how:
– Cool the pasta completely before freezing.
– Store in an airtight container or freezer bag.
– It lasts up to three months in the freezer.
– To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight.
– Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or milk.
What to serve with Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne?
This dish pairs well with:
– A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette.
– Garlic bread for a comforting touch.
– Steamed vegetables for extra nutrition.
– A light soup like minestrone for a complete meal.
How to make the creamy sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin, try these tips:
– Add more grated Parmesan cheese for extra thickness.
– Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
– Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it.
– Blend in a small amount of cream cheese for added creaminess.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep this dish ahead. Here’s how:
– Cook the pasta and broccoli, then store them in the fridge.
– Cook the chicken and sauce separately to keep flavors fresh.
– Combine all ingredients just before serving.
– Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking.
For the Full Recipe, refer back to the earlier section.
In this article, I shared a simple recipe for Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne. You learned about the key ingredients, prep and cook times, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I also provided tips to enhance flavor and presentation, as well as variations for different diets.
This dish is easy to customize and perfect for any meal. With these guidelines, you can make a delicious dish that impresses. Enjoy your cooking and make it your own!
