Introduction
This creamy chicken and broccoli penne pasta dish is a delightful meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it features simple ingredients that come together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy families. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy pasta creates a satisfying dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 teaspoons minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups milk
– 16 ounces penne pasta
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cups cooked and shredded or cubed chicken
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 6
Directions
1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the onion powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and dried parsley; cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Add the penne pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
7. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Add the broccoli florets to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender.
9. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
10. Add the cooked chicken, mixing well to combine and heat through.
11. Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Stir in the onion powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and dried parsley; cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Milk
Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 6: Add the Pasta
Add the penne pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
Step 7: Simmer the Pasta
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 8: Add Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender.
Step 9: Incorporate Cheddar Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 10: Mix in Cooked Chicken
Add the cooked chicken, mixing well to combine and heat through.
Step 11: Let It Thicken
Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Vegetable Additions
Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Variations
For a different flavor, try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Melt butter over medium heat to create a rich base for your dish. Avoid letting the butter brown too much; you want it just melted.
Sautéing Garlic
Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. This technique enhances the flavor of your dish and adds depth to your sauce.
Seasoning
Add seasoning like onion powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and dried parsley to the sautéed garlic. This infuses the butter with flavors.
Heating Liquid
Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring together. This forms the creamy base of your dish, which should be brought to a boil for effective cooking.
Simmering Pasta
Add penne pasta to the boiling liquid. Simmer on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
Cooking Broccoli
Introduce broccoli florets into the simmering pasta. This allows the broccoli to soften while integrating its flavor into the dish.
Melting Cheese
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese once the pasta and broccoli are cooked. This creates a creamy and cohesive sauce.
Incorporating Chicken
Add cooked chicken to combine with pasta and sauce, heating it through while maintaining a balanced texture and flavor.
Letting It Sit
Allow the dish to sit before serving, which helps it thicken for a more satisfying consistency.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like ziti or fusilli, but cooking times may vary.
Is there a substitute for butter?
You can use olive oil or margarine as a healthier or dairy-free alternative.
Can I omit the chicken from the recipe?
Absolutely! The dish can remain vegetarian by simply leaving out the chicken.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
Feel free to use other cheese varieties, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken and broccoli penne pasta dish combines rich flavors and reassuring textures, making it a comforting and hearty meal. The blend of seasonings elevates the simple ingredients, while the melted cheddar cheese adds a delightful creaminess that binds the dish together. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings, providing both nutrition and satisfaction in every bite.
Chicken Alfredo Penne
Substitute the cheddar cheese with Alfredo sauce for a rich and decadent flavor. Add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for extra nutrition.
Vegetarian Option
Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth and maintain the creamy sauce for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Pesto Penne with Broccoli
Incorporate pesto sauce instead of the spices for a herby twist. The broccoli will add a fresh green contrast that pairs beautifully with the pasta.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Add buffalo sauce to the creamy mixture for a spicy kick. Top with crumbled blue cheese for an added flavor dimension.
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta
Mix in chopped spinach and artichoke hearts along with the broccoli for a cheesy, slightly tangy pasta dish that mirrors the classic dip.
One-Pot Taco Pasta
Transform it by adding taco seasoning and black beans. Top with avocado and salsa for a Mexican-inspired meal that’s both fun and filling.
