Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe balances juicy chicken and crisp broccoli with pasta coated in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, the simple seasoning highlights the natural tastes of the ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 2 cups penne pasta
• 1.5 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic (if you have some for extra flavor) and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with chicken. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in cream or a creamy sauce base (cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream can be used; you can add grated Parmesan if available) and stir until everything is well coated and heated through.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for brightness.
• Substitute penne with other pasta shapes such as rigatoni or farfalle.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thaw and drain excess water before adding to the dish.

What can I substitute for penne pasta?

Any short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle works well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream alternatives or coconut milk for the sauce.

How do I keep chicken tender?

Don’t overcook the chicken and cook it over medium heat for juiciness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, store separately and reheat before serving for best texture.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, Parmesan or mozzarella complement the creamy sauce nicely.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mild but can be adjusted with added chili flakes or pepper.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but the texture may change; thaw and reheat gently.

How do I make the sauce creamy?

Add heavy cream, cream cheese, or a béchamel base for creaminess.

Can I add garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, though fresh garlic provides more flavor and aroma.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne is a quick, flavorful meal that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a rich, garlicky sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s easy to customize and sure to satisfy the whole family.

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