Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne | Easy Family Dinner Recipe

 

 

               





If you’ve been craving the perfect creamy broccoli and chicken penne recipe, you’re in for a treat. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne pasta tossed in a luscious creamy sauce. Whether you prefer the comforting flavors of a creamy tomato chicken and broccoli penne or the richness of a creamy mushroom and broccoli chicken penne, this recipe delivers a cozy and satisfying meal that feels like comfort food but comes together quickly. Ideal for busy weeknights or a special family dinner, this creamy chicken penne with broccoli recipe is versatile, kid-friendly, and loaded with flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make – perfect for weeknights.

  • Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

  • Family-friendly dish that even picky eaters enjoy.

  • Flexible – try creamy chicken pesto penne with broccoli or a Tuscan-style twist.

  • A balanced mix of protein, veggies, and carbs.

  • Works well for meal prep and reheats beautifully.

  • Cozy, comfort food vibes in every bite.

             

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this creamy broccoli chicken penne pasta, you’ll need:

  • Penne pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred).

  • Chicken breast or thighs (cubed).

  • Fresh broccoli florets (or frozen if you’re in a hurry).

  • Heavy cream (swap with Greek yogurt or milk for a lighter option).

  • Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano for sharper flavor).

  • Garlic, onion, olive oil, and seasonings.

Storage Tip: Keep broccoli fresh by storing unwashed florets in a perforated bag in the fridge. You can also prep extra and freeze for future chicken broccoli alfredo penne pasta recipes.

                   

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Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.

  3. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in cream and let it simmer until slightly thickened.

  4. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook until just tender, keeping them slightly crisp for texture.

  5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy and well blended.

  6. Add the penne pasta, tossing everything together. Adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

Tip: For a restaurant-quality finish, top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Want a twist? Try turning this into a chicken broccoli alfredo penne bake by baking with mozzarella cheese until bubbly.

                   

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and broccoli penne pairs wonderfully with:

  • A side salad with balsamic vinaigrette.

  • Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.

  • A glass of white wine for adults or sparkling water with lemon.

For comfort, serve family-style with a large serving bowl at the center of the table—just like an Italian feast.


Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~350

  • Fat: 28g

  • Protein: 20g

  • Net Carbs: 3–5g

This keeps you within the 20–30g net carb daily limit if you’re following keto or low-carb goals.

                  

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

  • Best reheated on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.

  • Yes, you can freeze it—just undercook the pasta slightly before freezing.

  • Meal prep tip: Divide into containers with extra veggies for quick grab-and-go lunches.

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Common Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make creamy broccoli chicken penne lighter?
A: Yes! Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light cream cheese.

Q: Can I use other pasta shapes?
A: Absolutely. Penne works best, but rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine are great options.

Q: What’s the difference between Alfredo and this recipe?
A: Alfredo is creamier and uses butter with Parmesan. This recipe balances creaminess with a broccoli twist.

Q: Can I cook this in a crockpot?
A: Yes! Try a creamy chicken broccoli penne crockpot version—just add pasta in the last 30 minutes to avoid mushiness.

                  

Special Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan

  • Pasta pot

  • Colander

  • Wooden spoon or spatula

                  

Recipe Variations

  • Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives.

  • Southwest Flavor: Add chili powder, corn, and black beans.

  • Herbal Delight: Use fresh basil, parsley, and thyme.

  • Egg White Version: Swap cream for whisked egg whites and light cheese.

            

Conclusion 

This creamy broccoli and chicken penne recipe is everything you need in a family dinner—quick, hearty, creamy, and full of flavor. Whether you want a simple weeknight meal or a Tuscan-inspired chicken broccoli alfredo penne bake, this recipe will win hearts at the table.

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