This Chicken Penne Pasta with Broccoli is a hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Tender chunks of seasoned chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and al dente penne pasta are tossed in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce that brings the dish together beautifully. The combination of protein, vegetables, and pasta makes it a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain both pasta and broccoli, then set aside. - Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken. - Combine Ingredients
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated in the creamy sauce. - Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
