Quick Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a creamy pasta dish that warms your heart and fills your belly. Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken, Broccoli, and Parmesan Cream takes me back to cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air and everyone left the table satisfied. The best part? This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a last-minute gathering.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken, Broccoli, and Parmesan Cream

  • Fast
  • Easy
  • Giftable
  • Crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto that creamy sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding flavor.
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced: A lean protein that makes this dish hearty.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better!
  • 2 cups broccoli florets: A vibrant veggie that adds color and crunch.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that luscious, creamy sauce.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For rich, cheesy goodness.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A pop of color and freshness on top.

How to Make Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken, Broccoli, and Parmesan Cream

Ready to whip up this delightful dish? Follow these simple steps:

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Substitutions & Additions

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, here are some great substitutions and additions:

  • Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
  • Use whole grain penne for a healthier twist.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of sweetness and extra flavor.
  • For extra greens, toss in some spinach or kale along with the broccoli.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Garlic Tuscan Penne turns out perfectly:

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will cook a bit more when mixed with the sauce.
  • Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
  • If you want to prep ahead, you can cook the chicken and broccoli in advance and just combine everything when you’re ready to eat.

How to Store Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken, Broccoli, and Parmesan Cream

This dish is great for leftovers! Store any uneaten Garlic Tuscan Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just add a splash of cream or water to loosen it up and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

  • Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and add more veggies or a plant-based protein.
  • What can I serve with this pasta? A simple side salad or some garlic bread would pair perfectly!

And there you have it! A delicious, creamy pasta dish that’s not only easy to make but also sure to impress your family and friends. For more delicious recipes, check out Mongolian Beef Noodles or Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes for treats you will love!

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Quick Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken, Broccoli, and Parmesan Cream

There’s something so comforting about a creamy pasta dish that warms your heart and fills your belly. Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken, Broccoli, and Parmesan Cream takes me back to cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air and everyone left the table satisfied. The best part? This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a last-minute gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 670 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot

Ingredients
  

For the Garlic Tuscan Penne

  • 12 oz penne pasta the perfect shape to hold onto that creamy sauce.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing the chicken and adding flavor.
  • 1 lb chicken breast diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets a vibrant veggie that adds color and crunch.
  • 1 cup heavy cream the secret to that luscious, creamy sauce.
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated for rich, cheesy goodness.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Step 4: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
  • Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  • Step 6: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

This dish is great for leftovers! Store any uneaten Garlic Tuscan Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just add a splash of cream or water to loosen it up and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Keyword Broccoli, Chicken, Garlic Tuscan Penne, Parmesan Cream

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