Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne Recipe Ebook: Easy Weeknight Dinner (instant Download) – Etsy

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne Recipe Ebook: Easy Weeknight Dinner (Instant Download) – Etsy

Introduction

Welcome to your go-to guide for creating the ultimate Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne—a rich, satisfying, and wholesome dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or impressing guests with minimal effort. This digital recipe ebook is designed specifically for home cooks who crave delicious, nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chef, this step-by-step guide will walk you through every detail—from selecting quality ingredients to mastering the creamy sauce technique.

What makes this recipe so special? It combines tender grilled chicken, al dente penne pasta, crisp-tender broccoli florets, and a velvety garlic-herb cream sauce that coats every bite. It’s comfort food elevated—balanced with protein, fiber, and flavor. And now, with this downloadable ebook available on Etsy, you can have instant access to everything you need to recreate this restaurant-quality meal right at home.

The History

Pasta dishes with meat and vegetables have been staples of Italian cuisine for centuries, but the modern concept of creamy chicken pasta emerged in the mid-20th century as global palates began embracing richer, dairy-based sauces. Inspired by classic Italian-American dishes like fettuccine Alfredo and chicken tetrazzini, Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne evolved as a healthier, more balanced alternative—adding steamed broccoli for color, texture, and nutrition.

Over time, home cooks started experimenting with different cheeses, herbs, and cooking techniques to create versions suitable for everyday meals. The addition of penne pasta—known for its ability to hold thick sauces—made it even more popular among families looking for hearty yet approachable recipes. Today, variations of this dish appear on menus across America and beyond, but few capture the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and ease quite like this version.

This recipe draws inspiration from both traditional Italian cooking principles and modern dietary preferences, focusing on fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and maximum flavor. With roots in rustic farmhouse kitchens and a nod to contemporary health-conscious lifestyles, Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne stands as a timeless favorite that continues to win hearts one forkful at a time.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make the best Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here’s a detailed look at what goes into this delectable dish:

Chicken Breast (1 lb / 450g): Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook evenly and absorb seasonings well. For extra tenderness, consider pounding them slightly before cooking or using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.

Penne Pasta (12 oz / 340g): Tube-shaped pasta holds onto creamy sauces beautifully. Opt for durum wheat semolina penne for superior texture, or choose whole grain penne for added fiber and nuttiness.
Broccoli Florets (3 cups): Fresh broccoli adds crunch, vibrant green color, and essential nutrients like vitamin C and K. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works too—just thaw and pat dry before adding.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Provides richness and body to the sauce. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less indulgent.
Chicken Broth (½ cup): Adds savory depth without overpowering the creaminess. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Aromatic and pungent when raw, garlic mellows into sweet complexity when sautéed—key for flavor foundation.
Shallot or Onion (¼ cup finely diced): Shallots offer a subtle sweetness; yellow onion gives a bolder bite. Choose based on preference.
Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp): Enhances mouthfeel and helps build the sauce base. Salted butter can be used, but adjust final seasoning accordingly.
All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp): Used to make a roux that thickens the sauce smoothly and prevents separation.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (¾ cup): Salty, umami-rich cheese that melts seamlessly into the sauce. Freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
Fresh Thyme or Dried Italian Herbs (1 tsp): Thyme brings earthy notes; Italian seasoning blends oregano, basil, rosemary, and marjoram for a well-rounded profile.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For searing chicken and sautéing veggies. Extra virgin olive oil adds fruitiness, while regular works fine for high-heat cooking.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Crucial for balancing flavors. Season in layers—while cooking chicken, sautéing aromatics, and finishing the sauce.
Optional Add-ins: Red pepper flakes for heat, sun-dried tomatoes for tang, mushrooms for earthiness, or spinach for extra greens.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Prepare Ingredients: Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes. Finely dice shallot or onion. Mince garlic. Measure out all other ingredients to ensure smooth workflow.
Cook the Penne: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 10–12 minutes). During the last 3 minutes, add broccoli florets to blanch them directly in the pasta water. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat chicken dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F/74°C). Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter with 1 tbsp olive oil. Add shallot and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant—do not let it burn.
Create the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a paste. This removes raw flour taste and prepares it to thicken the sauce.
Add Liquids Gradually: Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking continuously. Then gradually add heavy cream, still whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Build the Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add herbs, additional black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Combine Everything: Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add drained penne and broccoli. Toss gently to coat all ingredients in sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water 2 tbsp at a time to loosen consistency.
Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Parmesan. For brightness, squeeze in a little lemon juice (optional).
Serve Immediately: Plate warm, garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or cracked black pepper. Serve with garlic bread or a crisp salad on the side.

Tips

Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Adding it during the last few minutes of pasta cooking ensures it stays bright green and slightly crisp—perfect contrast to the creamy sauce.
Use Room Temperature Cream: Cold cream can cause the sauce to seize or curdle slightly. Letting it sit out for 10–15 minutes before use improves emulsification.
Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy liquid helps bind the sauce to the pasta and adjust thickness without diluting flavor.
Season in Layers: Salt each component as you cook—chicken, aromatics, sauce—to build deep, complex flavor rather than relying solely on final seasoning.
Avoid High Heat After Adding Dairy: Keep heat low after incorporating cream and cheese to prevent separation or scorching.
Let the Chicken Rest: After searing, let chicken rest a few minutes before returning to sauce. This keeps it juicy when mixed in.
Toast the Garlic Lightly: Sauté just until fragrant—overcooked garlic turns bitter and ruins the sauce profile.
Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-grated cheeses contain cellulose to prevent clumping, which inhibits smooth melting. Freshly grated Parmesan integrates flawlessly.
Make It Ahead: Cook components separately and store refrigerated up to two days. Reheat gently with extra broth or cream when ready to serve.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes well (without broccoli texture holding perfectly). Portion into containers for easy freezer meals later.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne lies in its versatility. Feel free to adapt it based on dietary needs, ingredient availability, or personal taste. Here are some creative twists:

Dairy-Free Version: Replace heavy cream with canned full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Add a splash of lemon juice for sharpness.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular penne for gluten-free pasta made from brown rice, corn, or quinoa. Ensure your flour substitute (like cornstarch or arrowroot) is labeled GF.
Vegetarian Twist: Omit chicken and add plant-based protein like chickpeas, white beans, or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Vegan Adaptation: Combine dairy-free cream, vegan Parmesan, and meatless chicken strips. Boost umami with miso paste or soy sauce in the sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Top with sliced jalapeños or sriracha drizzle before serving.
Mediterranean Style: Include kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and crumbled feta. Finish with fresh basil.
Low-Carb/Keto Friendly: Substitute penne with spiralized zucchini (zoodles), cauliflower penne, or shirataki noodles. Increase cream and butter content slightly for satiety.
Gourmet Upgrade: Use prosciutto or pancetta for smokiness. Add truffle oil, wild mushrooms, or lump crabmeat for luxury appeal.
One-Pan Wonder: Skip boiling pasta separately—use the “absorption method” where uncooked penne simmers directly in broth and cream. Requires careful monitoring to avoid mushiness.
Kid-Friendly Makeover: Finely chop broccoli or blend it into the sauce. Call it “Green Monster Pasta” and let kids sprinkle their own cheese on top.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne is undeniably comforting, it can also be part of a balanced diet when prepared thoughtfully. Here’s a breakdown of key nutritional aspects per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	Approx. 580 kcal
Protein	34g
Total Fat	22g (Saturated: 12g)
Carbohydrates	60g (Fiber: 5g, Sugars: 4g)
Sodium	650mg (varies with broth and cheese choices)
Vitamin C	85% DV (from broccoli)
Calcium	25% DV (from dairy and cheese)
Iron	18% DV

Health Highlights:

High-Quality Protein: Chicken breast supports muscle maintenance and promotes satiety.
Fiber-Rich Vegetables: Broccoli contributes fiber, antioxidants, and compounds linked to reduced inflammation.
Bone-Supportive Nutrients: Calcium and vitamin K from dairy and broccoli support skeletal health.
Brain-Boosting Fats: Moderate saturated fat from dairy provides energy and aids absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).

Dietary Tips for Healthier Results:

Use leaner cuts of chicken or remove visible fat before cooking.
Opt for low-fat milk or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream to reduce calories and saturated fat.
Increase vegetable volume—add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini—for more fiber and micronutrients.
Choose whole grain or legume-based pasta for higher protein and slower-digesting carbs.
Leverage herbs and spices instead of salt to enhance flavor without increasing sodium.
Control portion size—pair with a side salad instead of garlic bread for lighter balance.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
12 oz (340g) penne pasta (regular or whole wheat)
3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup shallot or yellow onion, finely diced
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for GF)
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried Italian herbs or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
(Optional) Pinch of red pepper flakes, lemon zest, chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne and cook for 9–11 minutes, then add broccoli during the last 3 minutes. Drain, reserve ½ cup pasta water, and set aside.
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large nonstick or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through (5–6 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
In the same skillet, heat 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil. Add shallot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until aromatic.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then slowly add heavy cream. Simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add herbs, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked penne and broccoli. Gently toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired creaminess.
Taste and adjust seasoning. For brightness, stir in ½ tsp lemon juice or zest.
Serve immediately in warm bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan, parsley, or cracked pepper.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and cook the chicken and pasta separately. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently and adding small amounts of milk, broth, or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can cause separation.

Can I freeze Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne?
It can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture of the sauce may become slightly grainy upon thawing due to dairy separation. To minimize this, undercook the pasta slightly before freezing and add fresh cream when reheating.

Why did my sauce break or curdle?
This usually happens from high heat or cold dairy added too quickly. Always temper the cream by warming it slightly and keep heat low after dairy is added. Whisking constantly also helps maintain emulsion.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Just thaw and drain excess moisture thoroughly to prevent watery sauce. You can also sauté it briefly in the pan before combining.

Is there a way to make this lower in fat?
Yes. Substitute heavy cream with evaporated skim milk, Greek yogurt (added off-heat), or blended silken tofu. Reduce butter and increase broth for lighter consistency.

What can I pair with this dish?
Excellent sides include garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted carrots, sautéed green beans, or a chilled cucumber-tomato salad. For wine pairings, try Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or a light Rosé.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Definitely. Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled/baked chicken works great—just chop and add it when combining with the sauce to warm through.

How do I prevent mushy pasta?
Cook pasta al dente and rinse only if making a cold dish. Otherwise, drain and toss immediately with sauce. Avoid leaving it sitting in water after cooking.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
While possible, creamy sauces don’t always hold up well in slow cookers due to prolonged heat exposure. However, you can cook chicken and veggies in the crockpot, then finish with stovetop sauce assembly for best results.

Summary

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne is the ultimate weeknight dinner—delicious, nutritious, and effortlessly elegant. With this comprehensive recipe ebook, you’ll master the perfect balance of tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp broccoli, and luxuriously smooth sauce every single time.