🍝 Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta with Broccoli & Peppers
✨ Description:
This rich and satisfying pasta dish is a perfect comfort meal. Juicy chicken breast, al dente penne pasta, crisp-tender broccoli, and sweet bell peppers are tossed in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s colorful, filling, and full of flavor—great for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
📝 Ingredients:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1½ cups broccoli florets
- ½ red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ yellow bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chili flakes, Italian herbs, or fresh parsley for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Cook pasta: Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Cook veggies: In the same pan, sauté garlic, then add broccoli and bell peppers. Cook for 3–4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, add Parmesan cheese, stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the pan. Toss everything until well coated in sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or herbs.
🧠 Notes:
- Cream substitute: You can use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.
- Veggie swap: Try spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Pasta type: Penne holds the sauce well, but rotini or fettuccine also work.
💡 Tips:
- Don’t overcook broccoli — add it in the last few minutes for vibrant color and crunch.
- Grate your own Parmesan — it melts better than pre-shredded.
- For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine before adding cream.
🍽️ Servings:
Makes 4 servings as a main dish.
🔍 Nutritional Info** (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: ~400mg (depends on salt and cheese)
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Chicken: Great lean protein source.
- Broccoli: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamin A & C.
- Garlic: Offers immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes! Just warm it in the pan before adding veggies.
Q: How long does this keep?
A: Up to 3–4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of cream or milk.
Q: Can I freeze this?
A: It’s possible, but cream sauces may separate upon thawing. For best results, consume fresh or refrigerated.
Q: How can I make it spicy?
A: Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.