Creamy Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a creamy pasta dish that warms you from the inside out. Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken, Broccoli, and Parmesan Cream brings back memories of cozy family dinners and simple yet satisfying meals. You’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily this dish comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend treat.

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

• Fast: You can have the main components prepped and cooked in about 30 minutes.
• Easy: It’s a straightforward recipe that even beginner cooks can master with confidence.
• Giftable: This dish travels well, making it perfect for potlucks or as a comforting meal for friends.
• Crowd-pleasing: The creamy, cheesy flavor will win over even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta: This pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: A lean protein that makes this dish hearty.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, they add a lovely crunch and color.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: A must-have for that aromatic, flavorful base.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This creates the luscious, rich sauce that ties everything together.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and garlic.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A sprinkle of freshness to finish off your dish.

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

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. I love the smell of garlic sizzling!
4. Next, toss in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until they are tender.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that fresh touch.

Substitutions & Additions

• If you prefer a different pasta shape, feel free to swap out the penne for fusilli or rotini.
• Add some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color.
• For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Try adding spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.

Tips for Success

• Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
• Make sure to toss the pasta in the sauce while it’s still warm to ensure it absorbs all the flavors.
• If you want to prep ahead, you can cook the chicken and pasta in advance, then just combine everything when you’re ready to eat.

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

Leftover Garlic Tuscan Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

• Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus would work well.
• Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Yes, it holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.
• Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Sure! Just substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein.

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine! Don’t forget to follow my Pinterest for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration!

Garlic Tuscan Penne with Chicken, Broccoli, and Parmesan Cream

A creamy pasta dish that warms you from the inside out, featuring chicken, broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce—perfect for busy weeknights or delightful weekend meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Garlic Tuscan Penne

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets fresh
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Once it's al dente, drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until they are tender.
5. Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it's melted and smooth.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that fresh touch.

Notes

Leftover Garlic Tuscan Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.