Looking for a dinner idea that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and cozy enough to please the whole family? Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a recipe that checks all the boxes. It’s hearty, nutritious, and packed with flavor from tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta just right.

This article will walk you through everything you need about this beloved comfort food—from the must-have ingredients and pro cooking tips to serving suggestions and healthy variations. Whether you’re a home cook or a pasta lover looking to try something new, this complete guide is your perfect start.

Introduction

What Is Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a soul-warming pasta dish that blends classic Italian technique with everyday ingredients. At its core, it’s a simple combo of penne pasta, tender chunks of chicken breast, and vibrant green broccoli florets, all tied together in a luscious creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The result? A perfectly balanced meal that’s filling, flavorful, and ready in under an hour.

This dish is especially popular for busy weeknights because it’s quick, satisfying, and doesn’t require fancy ingredients. But don’t be fooled by its simplicity—when done right, this pasta can feel gourmet.

Why This Dish Works So Well

The success of this recipe lies in its harmony. The firm texture of penne holds the sauce beautifully, the broccoli adds a crisp contrast, and the chicken brings the protein punch. The creamy sauce, rich but not overpowering, ties everything together with a savory smoothness that keeps you coming back for more.

Not only is this pasta dish delicious, but it’s also easy to customize. You can make it dairy-free, add extra veggies, or even switch up the protein to suit your preferences. It’s flexible and forgiving, which makes it a great base for creativity.

Benefits of Cooking Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne at Home

Save Money and Eat Better

Let’s face it—eating out gets expensive. Making this dish at home means fewer preservatives, more control over what goes in, and big savings in the long run. Plus, you can tweak it to be healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Perfect for Leftovers

This pasta keeps well in the fridge and tastes just as good the next day. So whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, it’s a smart, time-saving option.

Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it’s got pasta—what’s not to love? Even picky eaters tend to go back for seconds. And the broccoli? It blends in so well they might not even notice it’s a veggie.

What You’ll Learn in This Guide

Here, we’ll explore each part of the dish in detail—from choosing the right pasta to getting that sauce silky smooth. We’ll also dive into handy tips, substitutions, and expert-approved tweaks that help take your version from good to can’t-stop-eating-it great.

So grab a pot, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on a dish that’s destined to become a household favorite.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

To make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne, you’ll need a handful of simple, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why it matters.

Penne Pasta

Penne is ideal because its ridged surface holds onto the creamy sauce. Plus, it cooks fast and evenly. You can also use other short pasta like rotini or rigatoni if that’s what you have.

Best Substitutes for Penne

Rotini – Spirals trap sauce just as well.
Fusilli – Great for holding thick sauces.
Gluten-free pasta – Works well if you have dietary needs.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is lean, quick to cook, and absorbs flavor easily. Cut it into small, even chunks so it cooks faster and stays juicy.

Other Chicken Options

Chicken thighs – Juicier and richer in flavor.
Leftover cooked chicken – Perfect for a quick meal.

Broccoli Florets

Broccoli adds color, crunch, and nutrition. Use fresh if possible—it stays brighter and firmer. But frozen broccoli works too, especially when you’re short on time.

Other Veggies You Can Add

Spinach – Wilts quickly and adds iron.
Peas – Slightly sweet and cook in minutes.
Zucchini – Mild and tender when sautéed.

Cream Sauce Ingredients

This creamy base brings everything together. It’s smooth, rich, and full of flavor.

What You’ll Need

Heavy cream – Makes the sauce thick and rich.
Garlic – Adds warmth and depth.
Butter – Gives that silky, comforting touch.
Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and perfect for melting.
Salt and pepper – Basic, but crucial for balance.

If You Don’t Have These

Milk and a bit of flour – A lighter, budget-friendly swap for heavy cream.
Cream cheese – Adds thickness and a slight tang.
Nutritional yeast – Good for dairy-free flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions and Customizations

Want to make it your own? Here are a few easy ways to switch it up without messing it up.

Protein Swaps

Not a fan of chicken? Try one of these:

Delicious Alternatives

Shrimp – Cooks fast and adds a seafood twist.
Tofu – Great plant-based option, especially when pan-seared.
Lentils – For a vegetarian-friendly source of protein.

Dairy-Free Options

You can enjoy this dish without dairy and still get that creamy texture.

Go-To Non-Dairy Swaps

Coconut cream – Rich and smooth, though slightly sweet.
Oat milk and vegan butter – Mild flavor and easy to find.
Dairy-free cheese – Melts well and keeps the dish creamy.

Extra Flavor Ideas

Boost the taste with simple additions.

Flavor Boosters

Red pepper flakes – A little heat goes a long way.
Fresh herbs – Parsley, basil, or thyme add freshness.
Lemon zest – Brings brightness and balances the richness.

Now that you know exactly what you need and how to make it your own, you’re one step closer to a delicious homemade dish. The beauty of this pasta? It welcomes tweaks and still turns out great.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Getting Everything Ready

Cooking Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is easy when you prep ahead. Start by laying out all your ingredients. That way, the process will be quick and smooth.

Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot. Add a good pinch of salt. Once it boils, toss in the penne. Stir now and then to stop sticking. Cook until it’s just tender—al dente. That means it’s firm but not hard. Drain it and set it aside.

Helpful Tip

Keep a bit of the pasta water. It helps loosen the sauce later if it gets too thick.

Cook the Chicken

While the pasta boils, cook the chicken. Heat a pan on medium. Add a small amount of oil or butter. Toss in the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Let them cook until golden and no longer pink inside.

Keep in Mind

Don’t crowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed so the chicken browns instead of steaming.

Add the Broccoli

If using fresh broccoli, chop it into small florets. Add it to the pan once the chicken is done. Stir it for a couple of minutes. You want it tender but still bright green. If it’s frozen, thaw and drain it first, then add it to the pan.

Time-Saving Tip

You can also steam the broccoli quickly in the microwave with a splash of water.

Make the Creamy Sauce

This is where the magic happens. In the same pan, lower the heat. Add butter and minced garlic. Stir until the garlic smells nice—about 30 seconds.

Next, pour in the cream. Let it warm up, then sprinkle in the Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Add a little salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tip

If the sauce gets too thick, stir in some of the pasta water you saved earlier.

Put It All Together

Now it’s time to mix. Add the cooked penne to the pan with the sauce. Toss in the chicken and broccoli too. Stir everything gently so the sauce covers it all.

Let it simmer for a minute or two. This helps the flavors blend.

Final Touch

Taste and adjust the seasoning. Maybe add a bit more cheese or a pinch of garlic powder if needed.

There you go. In just a few steps, you’ve got a creamy, satisfying pasta dish. It’s warm, filling, and full of simple goodness. Ready to serve and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

This pasta dish looks and tastes best when served hot and fresh. Once it’s ready, don’t wait too long. The creamy sauce can thicken as it cools.

Spoon it into bowls or plates. Use tongs or a large spoon to get a good mix of chicken, broccoli, and penne in each serving.

Simple Garnishing Ideas

Grated Parmesan – A little extra cheese on top goes a long way.
Chopped parsley – Fresh and green, it adds color and a clean taste.
Cracked black pepper – Just a pinch for a little kick.

Make It a Complete Meal

This dish is filling on its own, but a few extras can make dinner even better.

Great Side Dishes to Try

Adding a side can balance out the richness of the pasta.

Easy Pairings

Garlic bread – Crunchy on the outside, soft inside. Perfect for dipping in the sauce.
Green salad – A fresh salad with light dressing helps cut through the creaminess.
Roasted veggies – Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add more color and fiber.

Kid-Friendly Pairings

If you’re feeding kids, keep things simple.

Fun and Tasty Choices

Mini bread rolls – Soft and easy to eat.
Sliced apples or grapes – A bit of sweet goes well with creamy pasta.
Mild cheese cubes – Extra protein and fun to nibble.

What to Avoid Serving With This Dish

Not every side works well here. Try not to serve heavy, rich sides. They can make the meal too filling or dull the pasta’s flavor.

Less Ideal Options

Cream-based soups – Too much cream can feel overwhelming.
Heavy casseroles – They’ll compete with the pasta.
Dense breads – Light, airy breads are better.

This dish shines with the right balance of fresh sides and simple garnishes. Keep it light and clean to let the creamy flavors stand out. It’s a cozy, comforting meal that fits well on any table, from casual dinners to special nights in.

Nutritional Information

How Healthy Is Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne?

This dish is rich and filling. But it also brings some nutrition to the table. The key is balance. Let’s break it down.

Calories per Serving

On average, one serving has about 450 to 550 calories. This can change based on how much cream and cheese you use. If you want a lighter meal, you can reduce the portion or use low-fat cream.

Protein Power

Thanks to the chicken, you get a good amount of protein. Each serving offers around 25 to 30 grams. That helps keep you full longer.

Why Protein Matters

Helps build muscle
Keeps your energy steady
Good for growing kids and active adults

Carbs and Pasta

Penne pasta adds carbs, which give you energy. One serving has about 40 to 50 grams. If you need fewer carbs, try whole wheat or low-carb pasta instead.

Fat Content

The cream and cheese bring in fat. A serving can have around 20 grams of fat. Most of it comes from the cream.

Ways to Cut Fat

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
Pick low-fat cheese
Add more veggies to stretch the serving

Vitamins and Nutrients

Broccoli is a star here. It’s full of vitamins A, C, and K. It also has fiber, which helps digestion.

What Else Do You Get

Calcium – From the cheese and cream
Iron – Found in chicken and broccoli
Potassium – Helps balance fluids in your body

Dietary Adjustments

You can tweak this dish to fit your needs. Here’s how.

Health-Friendly Swaps

Gluten-free pasta – For people with gluten issues
Almond milk and vegan cheese – For a dairy-free version
Add mushrooms or spinach – For more fiber and nutrients

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne can be both tasty and nourishing. A few smart changes can make it lighter, healthier, or fit special diets. It’s a flexible dish that can match your lifestyle, without losing flavor.

Storage and Reheating

How to Store Leftovers the Right Way

Finished eating and have leftovers? Great! This pasta stores well and makes a quick meal later. But you’ve got to store it right to keep the taste and texture.

Storing in the Fridge

Let the pasta cool a bit before storing. Don’t leave it out too long—no more than 2 hours.

Steps to Store in the Fridge

Place the leftovers in an airtight container
Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days
Label it with the date, so you remember when you made it

Freezing Tips

Want to save it for longer? You can freeze it, but know this: creamy sauces may change texture when thawed.

Freezing the Smart Way

Use a freezer-safe container or bag
Leave some space at the top (sauce expands when frozen)
Freeze for up to 2 months
Write the date on the label

Best Ways to Reheat

Reheating creamy pasta needs a gentle touch. If it gets too hot, the sauce can split or turn grainy.

Microwave Reheating

This is the fastest option. Place your pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a lid or plate.

Microwave Steps

Heat on medium for 1 to 2 minutes
Stir halfway through
If dry, add a splash of milk or water before reheating

Stovetop Reheating

Use a small pan over low heat. Stir often to keep the sauce smooth.

Stovetop Tips

Add a spoonful of milk or broth
Heat slowly and stir gently
Don’t let it boil—just warm it through

Keep the Texture Creamy

Want that sauce to stay creamy? Don’t skip the splash of liquid. It helps loosen the sauce and brings it back to life.

If the pasta looks dry or sticky, just stir in a bit more cream or milk. That’s usually all it takes.

Storing and reheating this dish is easy with a few small tricks. You can enjoy the same creamy goodness again—whether it’s the next day or next week.

Variations and Customizations

Want to Switch Things Up? Try These Ideas

One great thing about Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is how easy it is to change. You can add flavor, change ingredients, or even make it suit special diets. Let’s explore some tasty ways to make it your own

Add More Flavor Without Extra Work

Little touches can bring big changes. A few pantry staples can boost the taste in no time.

Spicy Kick

If you like heat, this is for you.

Quick Additions for Heat

Red pepper flakes – Sprinkle a pinch into the sauce
Chili powder – Mix in while cooking the chicken
Black pepper – Add a bit more for bold flavor

Herbs and Seasonings

Fresh or dried herbs add depth. They also make your dish smell amazing.

Great Herb Choices

Basil – Sweet and soft
Thyme – Earthy and warm
Parsley – Fresh and bright (perfect on top)

Add More Vegetables

Want to eat more greens? Just toss them in.

Vegetables That Go Well

They blend nicely and cook fast.

Easy Veggie Add-Ins

Spinach – Add at the end, wilts fast
Peas – Sweet and soft, no prep needed
Mushrooms – Sauté them with the chicken for extra flavor

Try a One-Pot Method

Hate doing dishes? This tip’s for you.

How to Make It in One Pot

Cook the pasta, chicken, and sauce in the same pan. Just adjust the steps a little.

One-Pot Cooking Tips

Use a large, deep pan
Cook the chicken first, then remove it
Boil the pasta in broth and cream
Add broccoli near the end, toss chicken back i

Make a Baked Version

Want a pasta bake with a golden top? Easy.

Turn It Into a Casserole

This version is cheesy and crisp.

How to Bake It

Mix pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce
Pour into a baking dish
Top with shredded cheese or breadcrumbs
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes

This dish works in many ways. Add heat, sneak in veggies, or bake it for something new. The base recipe is simple and solid, but there’s room to play.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

People Often Ask These Questions About Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Let’s answer some common questions. These simple tips can help make your cooking easier and your dish better.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can. Penne is great, but other types work too.

Good Pasta Swaps

Rotini – Holds sauce well and has a fun shape
Fusilli – Great twisty texture
Bowtie (farfalle) – Cute and kid-friendly
Gluten-free pasta – Works fine if you need it

Just be sure to cook your pasta al dente. That way, it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, don’t worry. You can fix it fast.

Easy Ways to Thicken Sauce

Simmer longer so it reduces
Add more cheese
Mix a little flour with milk and stir it in
Use a bit of cream cheese for a richer texture

Always stir gently, so the sauce stays smooth.

Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep parts in advance. That saves time later.

What You Can Do Ahead

Cook and chop the chicken
Boil the pasta and store it
Steam or blanch the broccoli
Mix the sauce and keep it chilled

When you’re ready, warm everything together and serve.

What are the best cheese alternatives?

Not a fan of Parmesan? Try these.

Other Cheeses to Try

Mozzarella – Mild and stretchy
Cheddar – Sharp and bold
Pecorino Romano – Salty and rich (a lot like Parmesan)
Vegan cheese – Good for dairy-free diets

Choose one that melts well and fits your taste.

How can I make this gluten-free?

It’s easy with a few swaps.

Simple Gluten-Free Tips

Use gluten-free penne
Make sure your broth and cheese don’t contain hidden gluten
Read labels carefully—some sauces or seasonings might have wheat

This way, you get the same great taste without the gluten.

These questions come up a lot, and now you’ve got the answers. With these tips, your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne will be even better, no matter how you make it.

Conclusion

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken PenneComfort Food Made Simple

This dish is more than just pasta. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bright broccoli make every bite feel special.

It’s also flexible. You can swap ingredients, add veggies, or adjust the flavor to match what you like. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this pasta fits the moment.

Why You’ll Want to Make It Again

It’s quick. It’s easy. And it always hits the spot. Plus, you can store leftovers, reheat them, and still enjoy that same creamy goodness.

No fancy tools needed. No long list of ingredients. Just simple steps, real flavor, and a plate full of comfort.

Ready to Cook?

Grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get started. Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne might just become your new favorite dinner. And once you try it, you’ll see why so many people keep coming back for more

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Author: Olivia Hartwellen
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is a cozy, family-friendly pasta dish made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and penne noodles tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan garlic sauce. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes, parsley, lemon zest

Substitutions and Add-ins:

Use rotini or gluten-free pasta as alternatives
Try chicken thighs, shrimp, or tofu
Add peas, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more veggies
Use milk + flour or cream cheese instead of heavy cream
Vegan/dairy-free options: oat milk, dairy-free cheese, or nutritional yeast

Instructions

Boil Pasta: Cook penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain and set aside.
Cook Chicken: In a large pan, heat oil or butter. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and no longer pink.
Add Broccoli: Stir in broccoli and cook 2–3 minutes until tender and bright green.
Make the Sauce: Lower heat. Add more butter if needed, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in cream and stir.
Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan and let it melt. Season to taste. Add a splash of pasta water if too thick.
Combine: Add pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the pan. Toss to coat. Simmer 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.
Serve: Plate hot. Top with extra cheese, parsley, or black pepper if desired.

Notes

Don’t overcook the broccoli—it should stay green and crisp.

Use pasta water to loosen sauce as needed.

Leftovers keep well for 2–3 days and reheat nicely with a splash of milk.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: creamy pasta, chicken broccoli pasta, garlic cream sauce, quick dinner, penne with chicken, kid-friendly pasta