Some recipes just feel like a warm hug in a bowl, and this Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne is one of them. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into a cozy, satisfying experience—hearty, creamy, and packed with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne, all wrapped in a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce.
What makes this dish truly special is its balanced indulgence—rich and creamy, yet loaded with protein and veggies to keep it nourishing.
Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights. The combination of simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients means you get maximum flavor without complicated steps.
If you’re looking for the perfect side to round out your meal, try this refreshing Greek Zucchini Salad for a bright contrast, or serve it with Cottage Cheese Flatbread for a protein boost and extra comfort.
The best part? This recipe is totally customizable—swap the penne for whole wheat pasta, add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes, or throw in mushrooms for extra depth.
What Makes This Recipe a Must-Try?
- Weeknight-Friendly – Quick, easy, and made with ingredients you probably already have.
- Creamy Yet Balanced – Indulgent without being too heavy, thanks to fresh broccoli and lean chicken.
- Customizable – Switch up the pasta, add veggies, or tweak the spice level to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep – Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Strainer
- Large skillet or pan
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 medium chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Add broccoli in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Season and cook the chicken in a skillet with olive oil and butter until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and slice.
- Sauté garlic in the same pan until fragrant, then add cornstarch mixed with milk to thicken the sauce.
- Stir in cream cheese, Parmesan, and seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper) until smooth.
- Add pasta, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Let it simmer for a minute, then remove from heat.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and black pepper before serving.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 576kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 54g |
| Protein | 41g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Sodium | 721mg |
Creative Variations for Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne!
- Smoky & Spicy Kick – Swap the regular paprika for smoked paprika and add a pinch of cayenne or Calabrian chili paste for a bold, slightly smoky heat. It gives the sauce an irresistible depth.
- Four-Cheese Indulgence – Upgrade the creaminess by mixing in Gruyère, fontina, or a touch of blue cheese along with Parmesan. The extra cheese layers make the sauce ultra-rich with a gourmet touch.
- Earthy & Umami Boost – Sauté wild mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, or oyster) in butter before adding the garlic. The mushrooms soak up the sauce beautifully and add a hearty, restaurant-style flavor.
- Crispy & Savory Contrast – Top your finished dish with crispy prosciutto or pancetta for a satisfying salty crunch. It adds a contrast in texture that takes this dish from great to unforgettable.
- Bright & Fresh Twist – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a handful of chopped basil or parsley at the end will lift the entire dish, balancing out the richness with a pop of freshness.
- Wine-Infused Elegance – Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine after cooking the chicken and before adding the milk. This small step adds depth and a slightly sweet, sophisticated note to the sauce.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
