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Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that offers a perfect balance of creamy, savory flavors. With juicy seared chicken, tender penne pasta, and a velvety Parmesan sauce, this recipe is a go-to weeknight meal that is both satisfying and flavorful. The addition of broccoli not only adds a burst of color but also a healthy crunch to the dish, making it a wholesome and balanced option for a quick dinner. The best part? This dish requires just one pot and 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights when you crave something indulgent without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Full Recipe

For the Pasta:

Penne pasta (whole wheat for added flavor and nutrients)
Frozen broccoli (or fresh if preferred)
Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
Mushrooms (optional, but they add umami depth)
Garlic (for rich flavor)
Vegetable oil (for searing the chicken)

For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

Cream cheese (provides a creamy, tangy base)
Parmesan cheese (adds bold, salty flavor)
Butter (for sautéing and building the sauce)
Pasta water (helps create a silky, smooth sauce)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For Serving:

Extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook Pasta & Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and frozen broccoli, cooking them together for about 8 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Reserve 2 cups of the pasta water before draining the mixture and returning it to the pot.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 155°F-160°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm in a low-temperature oven (200°F) while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the mushrooms. Season them with salt and sauté for about 7-10 minutes until they turn golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 20-30 seconds. Then, add the cubed cream cheese and stir until it melts and becomes smooth. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of the reserved pasta water, followed by the Parmesan cheese, until the sauce is creamy.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the cooked pasta and broccoli, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips and serve them over the pasta. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Nutrients per Serving

Each serving of Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta contains approximately:

Calories: 875 kcal
Carbohydrates: 71g
Protein: 33g
Fat: 54g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Sodium: 269mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 38g

Why Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta is the Perfect Weeknight Meal

Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta is the ideal weeknight dinner for a variety of reasons. It is simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort and only 30 minutes of cooking time. With just one pot and a few pantry staples, this dish delivers incredible flavor and satisfying textures, making it an easy go-to when you’re craving comfort food. The addition of chicken and broccoli makes this dish a balanced meal, providing protein, fiber, and vegetables in one plate.

Another reason this pasta is a great weeknight meal is its versatility. While the recipe calls for whole wheat penne and frozen broccoli, you can easily substitute these ingredients based on what you have on hand. If you prefer a different type of pasta, feel free to use fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni—whatever you prefer. Similarly, if you don’t have frozen broccoli, fresh broccoli or another vegetable, such as spinach or peas, would work just as well.

The creamy Parmesan sauce is the star of the dish, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, indulgent meal. Unlike many creamy pastas that use heavy cream, this recipe uses cream cheese, which gives the sauce a tangy richness without being overwhelmingly heavy. This makes the dish perfect for those who want a comforting meal that doesn’t leave them feeling weighed down.

Customizing the Recipe

Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta is easy to customize to suit your preferences. If you want a lighter version, you can replace the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese to reduce the fat content while still achieving a creamy texture. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and substitute it with tofu, tempeh, or more vegetables. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to add more flavor, such as adding red pepper flakes for a little heat or lemon juice for a touch of brightness.

For those who enjoy a bit more texture in their pasta dishes, you can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes. These additions will enhance the flavor and make the dish even more vibrant.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta

Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore the creaminess of the sauce. If you’re reheating in the microwave, cover the pasta with a damp paper towel and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the pasta in the fridge overnight and reheat as described above.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta is a simple, comforting, and flavorful meal that can be prepared quickly and easily. With its creamy Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy broccoli, it’s a well-rounded dish that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds. This dish is not only a great weeknight meal but also an adaptable recipe that you can tweak to suit your preferences. Whether you stick with the classic version or add your personal touch, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.