Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne

Short Description

Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender chicken strips, al dente penne, and crisp broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich garlic-infused cream sauce. This dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a delightful choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced Meal: Incorporates protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in one dish.

• Rich Flavor: The garlic-infused cream sauce adds depth and richness.

• Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy evenings.

• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different vegetables or pasta types.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their 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

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)Gimme Delicious+1Key To My Lime+1

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   • Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions.

   • During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets.

   • Drain and set aside.Dash Salt-Free Products

2. Prepare the Chicken:

   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

   • Season the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

   • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Cream Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

   • Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.

   • Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning (if using).

   • Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

4. Combine and Serve:

   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat with the sauce.

   • Add the drained pasta and broccoli, tossing to combine.

   • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutesEpicurious+2The Kitchn+2Gimme Delicious+2

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add mushrooms or tofu for a meat-free version.

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cream sauce.

• Different Pasta: Substitute penne with fettuccine, rigatoni, or your preferred pasta shape.

• Additional Vegetables: Include bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Add it directly to the boiling pasta water during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter as a substitute, though the sauce may be less rich.

Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4-servings

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Description

This Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne combines tender chicken strips, crisp broccoli, and penne pasta in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. With rich flavor and balanced ingredients, it’s a quick and satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights or cozy evenings. Keywords: creamy garlic chicken pasta, chicken penne with broccoli, Parmesan cream sauce, easy weeknight pasta, garlic cream chicken recipe.

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Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

• 2 cups penne pasta

• 1.5 cups broccoli florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Add broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

• Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook 4–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

• Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, and let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

• Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta and broccoli. Toss to coat evenly with the sauce.

• Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream.

• Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

• Great with grilled or rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Pasta
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American