Description
A comforting classic! This dish brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. A weeknight favorite that’s endlessly customizable!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup pasta water (reserved from boiling)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook penne until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the broccoli: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and broccoli florets. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring gently. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust the thickness of the sauce with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the sauce. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using) and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. It’s perfect for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and helps it cling better to the pasta.
- Avoid Overcooking Broccoli: Keep the broccoli tender-crisp for a vibrant texture and color. Overcooking can make it mushy and dull.
- Season at Every Step: Layering flavors by seasoning the chicken, pasta water, and sauce ensures a well-rounded and delicious dish.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min