Introduction and Quick Summary
What if I told you that a simple dish could not only satisfy your hunger but also delight your taste buds? Picture this: tender pieces of chicken intertwined with al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a creamy sauce enriched with vibrant green broccoli. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making it hard to resist the anticipation of tasting this delightful meal. This is exactly what you get with Broccoli and Chicken Penne—a dish that brings together comforting flavors in one hearty bowl.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a colorful plate that balances nutrition with flavor. The combination of protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli makes this dish not just delicious but also filling. Whether you’re serving it on a cozy family night or at a gathering with friends, Broccoli and Chicken Penne will surely become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli and Chicken Penne
- Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is limited.
- Nutritionally Balanced: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli, it offers both taste and health benefits.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love pasta! With its creamy sauce and colorful veggies, this dish appeals to even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients or add extras like bell peppers or cheese to customize the dish to your liking.
Ingredients for Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Penne Pasta: About 8 ounces of penne pasta provides the perfect base; cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use around 1 pound of chicken breasts for tender bites; cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: About 2 cups of fresh broccoli adds color and nutrients; blanch briefly before mixing into the dish.
- Olive Oil: Use about 2 tablespoons to sauté the chicken; it adds flavor while helping prevent sticking.
- Garlic Cloves: Two minced garlic cloves enhance the sauce’s flavor profile; use fresh garlic for best results.
For the Sauce:
- Heavy Cream: One cup of heavy cream creates a rich sauce that binds everything together beautifully.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Half a cup adds savory depth; choose freshly grated cheese for optimal melting texture.
- Salt & Pepper: Seasoning to taste helps bring all flavors together—don’t forget this essential step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Broccoli and Chicken Penne
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the cooking water.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Broccoli
Stir in minced garlic followed by blanched broccoli florets. Cook together for about another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Pour heavy cream into the skillet while scraping any bits off the bottom. Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring until melted into a smooth sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked penne pasta into the skillet. Toss well until everything is coated evenly in creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer to plates or bowls immediately while hot. Garnish with more Parmesan if desired for an extra touch!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep an eye on your penne as overcooking will lead to mushiness; aim for al dente texture.
- Add Flavor Variations: Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor complexity.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare components ahead of time; store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for quicker assembly later on.
Mistakes to avoid
- Overcooking the Broccoli: One common mistake when making Broccoli and Chicken Penne is overcooking the broccoli. Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrant color, crunch, and nutritional value. To avoid this, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This method ensures that the broccoli remains bright green and tender-crisp, enhancing both flavor and texture in your dish.
- Using Dull Chicken Flavors: Another mistake is using bland chicken. For a delicious Broccoli and Chicken Penne, season your chicken well with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs before cooking. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes can infuse more flavor. Skipping this step may lead to a lackluster dish that fails to impress your taste buds.
- Ignoring Pasta Cooking Instructions: Not following the packaging instructions for cooking penne can lead to either undercooked or overcooked pasta. Always check for al dente as this will give your dish the right texture. After draining, you can toss the penne with a little olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare your sauce and other ingredients for Broccoli and Chicken Penne.
- Neglecting to Add Cheese: Cheese is essential in elevating flavors in dishes like Broccoli and Chicken Penne. Many make the mistake of not adding any cheese or using low-quality options. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella adds creaminess and depth to your dish. Always choose good quality cheese to maximize taste; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using frozen or canned vegetables may seem convenient but can compromise taste and nutrition in your Broccoli and Chicken Penne recipe. Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs create a more flavorful base for your dish. Always opt for fresh ingredients wherever possible to achieve a vibrant flavor profile that enhances every bite.
Ingredients
To prepare a delicious Broccoli and Chicken Penne, gather the following ingredients:
– 8 ounces of penne pasta
– 2 cups of broccoli florets
– 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delightful Broccoli and Chicken Penne:
1. Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, around 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing well until smooth.
6. Combine the cooked penne with the chicken and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli and Chicken Penne is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- A fresh green salad. A light salad with vinaigrette complements the creaminess of the dish.
- Garlic bread. The crunchy texture adds an enjoyable contrast to this creamy pasta.
- A glass of white wine. A chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors beautifully.
FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream in Broccoli and Chicken Penne?
If you prefer a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a blend of milk with cornstarch as a thickener. Greek yogurt can also be used for a creamy texture while adding protein. Just be cautious not to boil it after adding yogurt since it can curdle.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in Broccoli and Chicken Penne. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking or add it directly into your dish during the last few minutes of cooking time. This will ensure it maintains its vibrant color and texture.
Is it possible to make Broccoli and Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time by cooking it completely, letting it cool, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat when ready to serve.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To create a gluten-free version of Broccoli and Chicken Penne, simply substitute regular penne pasta with gluten-free penne made from rice or quinoa flour. The other ingredients remain unchanged, ensuring that you still enjoy this delectable meal without gluten.
Conclusion for Broccoli and Chicken Penne
In summary, Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with nutritious broccoli over al dente penne pasta in a creamy sauce. With simple ingredients that are easy to work with, you can have this comforting meal ready in no time. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or preparing meals ahead for busy days, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients or sides as you make this delicious pasta dish your own!