If you’re searching for a comforting yet surprisingly easy dinner that has all the right flavors, you’ve landed in the perfect spot. This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta Recipe is a family favorite that blends tender shredded chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne pasta all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or craving a cozy night in, this dish effortlessly brings both simplicity and spectacular taste to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each component contributes something essential—whether it’s a flavor base, a creamy element, or a splash of color and crunch—making the recipe beautifully balanced and easy to pull together.
- 1 lb penne pasta: Classic shaped pasta holds the sauce perfectly, giving you bursts of creaminess in every bite.
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3–4 lbs), shredded (about 4 cups): Using pre-cooked chicken saves time while adding rich, savory protein.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: These add vibrant green color and satisfying texture, plus a healthy punch.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing and enhances flavor without overpowering.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic introduces that irresistible aromatic depth.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and complexity when cooked down.
- 2 tbsp butter: Brings richness and helps create a silky sauce finish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star of the creamy sauce, making it indulgently smooth.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and subtle savory notes to balance the cream.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness that defines the flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup whole milk mozzarella, shredded: Offers gooey stretchiness and mild creaminess.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that uplifts every forkful.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Boosts garlic flavor with a gentle background note.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: A subtle kick to awaken your palate without overwhelming heat.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that tie all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until it’s just shy of tender—al dente texture is ideal here. Three minutes before the pasta finishes, toss in the broccoli florets. This timing cooks the broccoli perfectly so it stays bright and crisp without becoming mushy. Once done, scoop out and reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining both pasta and broccoli.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Next, warm olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it soften and sweeten, stirring occasionally. Once translucent, stir in minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. These aromatics create the flavor foundation for the creamy sauce you’re about to build.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors and thickening just enough. Remove the skillet from the heat, then whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. The cheese will melt smoothly, enriching the liquid into a velvety sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning to your preference—the red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth that balances the creamy richness superbly.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken
Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the luscious sauce. Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, ensuring the savory meat is evenly distributed throughout.
Step 6: Adjust Creaminess and Finish
Slowly add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until your sauce reaches the perfect creamy consistency. A final touch of butter melted into the dish adds extra silkiness and shine right before serving. Your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta Recipe is now ready to impress!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves brightens the dish visually and enhances freshness in every bite. You might also add an extra dusting of grated Parmesan for a final flavor punch and inviting presentation.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply in lemon vinaigrette, which cuts through the creaminess and offers lovely contrast. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic to mop up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls garnished with colorful edible flowers or microgreens to elevate the look. Layering the pasta in a clear glass baking dish topped with an extra sprinkle of cheese and briefly broiling it adds a golden crust appealing for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a perfect option for meal prepping or enjoying tasty leftovers that reheat well without losing their creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and store for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the sauce’s smooth consistency and prevent separation.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring and adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to bring back the sauce’s luscious creaminess. Avoid high heat to keep the cheese from clumping and to preserve that irresistible texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Just season and cook them fully before folding into the pasta. Rotisserie chicken simply saves time and adds extra flavor from seasoning already on the bird.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free version made from rice, corn, or chickpea flour. The sauce and other ingredients remain the same, so you won’t lose any of the creamy deliciousness.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and slightly thinner. Adding a small amount of cream cheese or additional cheese can help maintain that creamy texture.
How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?
Adding broccoli florets during the last three minutes of pasta cooking time is key. This quick cooking method keeps them tender-crisp and bright green, ensuring they add perfect texture and color.
What can I do to make this dish spicier?
If you love some heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper during seasoning. You can also top the finished dish with sliced fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a personalized kick.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta Recipe truly feels like a hug in a bowl, balancing hearty protein, fresh vegetables, and comforting creamy sauce in a way that’s nothing short of magical. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, give this recipe a try—you might just find it becoming a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Penne Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe featuring tender shredded rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and pasta tossed in a creamy Parmesan and mozzarella cheese sauce infused with garlic and Italian seasoning. Ready in just 35 minutes, it combines simple ingredients for a delicious family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Protein
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3–4 lbs), shredded (about 4 cups)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk mozzarella, shredded
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking time to blanch them simultaneously. Once done, reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli thoroughly.
- Sauté Onion: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Simmer Sauce Base: Pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently over medium-low heat for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to come together and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Add Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season Sauce: Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to fully coat the pasta and broccoli in the creamy sauce.
- Incorporate Chicken: Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the pasta mixture for balanced flavor and texture.
- Adjust Consistency: Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time while tossing, until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency that clings well to the pasta. Finish by stirring in a knob of butter for extra richness.
Notes
- Using a rotisserie chicken saves significant prep time and adds great flavor.
- Reserve pasta water is essential to achieve the perfect sauce consistency without thinning.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields a better melting texture and flavor compared to pre-grated.
