Introduction
This dish combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and al dente penne pasta in a rich garlic butter cream sauce. It’s an easy weeknight meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and sure to impress the whole family. Every bite bursts with creamy, garlicky goodness!
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta:
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
8 oz (225 g) penne pasta
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta and broccoli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.
During the last 2 minutes, add broccoli florets to the same pot.
Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken:
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Add to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).
Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine everything:
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the sauce.
Toss gently until everything is coated in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve warm and enjoy the creamy perfection!
How to Make (Summary)
Cook pasta and broccoli.
Sauté chicken until golden.
Make the creamy garlic butter sauce.
Combine all ingredients and toss.
Garnish and serve hot.
Variations
Add More Veggies: Try mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
Cheese Lovers: Add mozzarella or cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Spicy Kick: Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Tips
- Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should stay bright and crisp.
- Save a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if it thickens too much.
- For deeper flavor, brown the butter slightly before adding garlic.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli and Penne is a simple yet luxurious dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table. It’s creamy, garlicky, and perfect for any night you crave comfort food with a touch of elegance. 🍝💛