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Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

The Crispy Chef
A quick and creamy pasta dish with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich sauce, all ready in just 30 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet
  • Grater
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional

Instructions
 

  • Prep Everything: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cut broccoli into small florets. Mince garlic if not using pre-minced.
  • Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook penne according to package minus 1 minute (al dente). In the last 2 minutes, add broccoli florets to the pot. Drain everything, saving about 1/2 cup pasta water.
  • Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add flour, whisking for 1 minute. Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Add milk and cream, simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  • Combine Everything: Stir in parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional). Add cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli. Toss until well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water.

Notes

Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version and substitute cornstarch for flour.
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce calories.
Freshly grated parmesan melts much better than pre-shredded.
For a seafood twist, replace chicken with shrimp or salmon.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 25g
Keyword broccoli pasta, chicken penne, creamy pasta bake
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