Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Save this recipe on:

A rich, satisfying dish perfect for weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is the kind of comfort food that checks all the boxes. The velvety white sauce clings to each piece of penne, while chunks of juicy chicken and crisp-tender broccoli bring flavor and balance. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet nourishing, ready in under 30 minutes but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re looking to sneak more veggies into your family’s dinner or just craving a warm, creamy pasta that delivers every single time, this dish won’t let you down. Simple ingredients come together beautifully, making it a go-to favorite for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

---

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?

While the classic choice is penne for its sturdy tube shape and ability to hold onto sauce, other short pastas like rigatoni or ziti also work wonderfully. Avoid long noodles, as they tend to clump and don’t distribute the sauce, chicken, and broccoli as evenly.

---

Ingredients for the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

• Chicken Breast: Lean, protein-packed, and easy to cook, chicken breast is the heart of this dish.
• Broccoli Florets: Bright and fresh, broccoli adds crunch and nutrition that balances the creamy sauce.
• Penne Pasta: The tube-shaped pasta catches the sauce in every bite.
• Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously thick and rich.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth, saltiness, and a nutty note to the sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses the sauce with savory aroma and flavor.
• Butter: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken and gives extra body to the sauce.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Adds a touch of heat to contrast the creaminess.

---

How To Make the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them slightly. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season diced chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add to the pan. Sear until golden on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, then simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Season

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet, then add the drained penne. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is well coated in the sauce and everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and cracked black pepper on top. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.

---

Serving and Storing Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

This creamy pasta is best enjoyed fresh off the stove, when the sauce is silky and the pasta is perfectly tender. Serve it in wide shallow bowls to showcase the chicken and broccoli nestled in the creamy goodness. A sprinkle of Parmesan and a crack of black pepper elevates each bite.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Freezing is possible but not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, just thaw and drain it well before adding. It won’t be as crisp as fresh, but it still works wonderfully in the dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of flour can be used, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this dish even quicker. Just add it during the final toss to warm it through.

How do I make it spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for an extra kick.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free penne and check that your Parmesan is certified gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas are great additions that pair well with the creamy sauce.

---

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, you might enjoy trying these next:

• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce if you’re in the mood for a bold garlic kick.
• Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff for a cozy, earthy spin on creamy pasta.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for another creamy chicken variation.
• One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese when you’re craving cheesy and crispy bites.
• Sweet & Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta for a fusion of flavors.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in mushrooms or go heavy on the Parmesan? Try it with grilled chicken?

I love hearing how these recipes evolve in your kitchen. Got questions or tips? Share them below and let’s keep the dinner inspiration flowing.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: