This Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a yummy pasta dish that’s both colorful and healthy! It’s made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and tasty penne pasta.
Who knew eating your veggies could be this fun? I love how easy it is to whip up for dinner. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a meal everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for holding sauces, but feel free to use any pasta you have at home. Fusilli or farfalle work well, too, and can give this dish a fun twist!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds nice color and crunch. If it’s not available, you could use frozen broccoli or even other veggies like asparagus or spinach for a different flavor profile.
Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are classic for this recipe, but shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and equally delicious. Tofu or chickpeas can be good substitutes for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you prefer lighter options, half-and-half or a plant-based cream can be used. Just note that it might alter the flavor slightly.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but it’s easier than you might think! The goal is to have juicy, golden pieces without overcooking. Here’s how:
- Use a preheated skillet with olive oil to allow the chicken to sear nicely. Medium-high heat is usually best.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and optional herbs before cooking. This adds flavor right from the start.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown. If you overcook it, it can get dry, so keep an eye on it!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have tender chicken that complements the creamy sauce perfectly!
How to Make Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedge (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes cooking the pasta and broccoli and about 15 minutes preparing the chicken and sauce. It’s a quick and comforting meal perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and broccoli florets. Cook them together until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender, which should take about 8-10 minutes. After that, carefully drain the water and set the pasta and broccoli aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts to the skillet, seasoning them generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs if you’re using them. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet that you used for the chicken, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine it well with the garlic.
4. Add Cheese and Combine:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the creamy mixture. Stir it until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. It should get nice and creamy!
5. Mix Everything Together:
Now, return the cooked chicken, drained penne, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Give it a little taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is well mixed and heated through, serve it hot! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley on top and a lemon wedge on the side for that zesty squeeze. Enjoy your delicious Broccoli and Chicken Penne!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, just add it to the pot during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking the pasta. This will ensure it heats through without becoming mushy.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch, or a plant-based cream for dairy-free alternatives. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit less rich.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce gets too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken or substitute it with tofu or chickpeas for protein. You can also ask your local grocery store for plant-based chicken alternatives that would work well in this dish.