Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne – The Ultimate Comfort Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a rich, satisfying, and family-friendly dinner, this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne is about to become your new favorite. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, fresh broccoli florets, and a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce come together in one irresistible dish. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve guests.

This creamy chicken pasta recipe is packed with flavor, texture, and comforting goodness — all in under 40 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

✅ Quick and easy weeknight dinner
✅ Packed with protein and veggies
✅ Ultra creamy homemade sauce
✅ Kid-friendly and customizable
✅ Perfect for meal prep

The combination of juicy chicken and vibrant broccoli makes this pasta both hearty and balanced. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the penne, delivering flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 large chicken breasts, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparation

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions. During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens (about 3–4 minutes).

4. Add the Cheese

Reduce heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Combine Everything

Return chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss until fully coated in the creamy sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top!

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting.
Don’t overcook the broccoli — it should stay bright green and slightly crisp.
Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.
For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice before serving.

Variations

Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic.
Spicy version: Increase red pepper flakes.
Cheesy upgrade: Add mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just thaw and drain before adding to avoid excess water.

What pasta works best besides penne?

Fusilli, rigatoni, or rotini work beautifully because they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare everything and store separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne recipe is the perfect balance of comfort and freshness. It’s creamy without being too heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and guaranteed to satisfy even picky eaters.