Description
A comforting and easy-to-make creamy broccoli and chicken penne dish, perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce come together with penne pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cubed
8 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well-coated in the creamy sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For extra veggies, try adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
If you like it spicier, add extra red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey for a change in protein.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
