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.
Ingredients
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
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2 cups penne pasta
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1.5 cups broccoli florets
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta and broccoli. Toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
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For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream.
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Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
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Great with grilled or rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
