Why Make This Recipe
Ultimate Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli & Red Peppers is a delicious and satisfying meal. It combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich creamy sauce with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This recipe is easy to make and is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It offers a complete meal in one dish, filled with flavors and nutrients that everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Ultimate Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli & Red Peppers
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Directions:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add broccoli and red pepper to the skillet, cooking until tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the cooked penne with the creamy chicken mixture and mix well. Serve hot.
How to Serve Ultimate Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli & Red Peppers
Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet. You can garnish it with extra grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and flavor. This recipe pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Ultimate Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli & Red Peppers
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to return some moisture.
Tips to Make Ultimate Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli & Red Peppers
- Cook pasta al dente for the best texture.
- You can use other vegetables like spinach or zucchini if desired.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding red pepper flakes can give it a spicy kick.
- If you want it lighter, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Variation
You can easily make this recipe with shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. Just cook the shrimp until pink and add them to the sauce at the end.
FAQs
Can I use whole grain penne pasta?
Yes, whole grain penne pasta works well in this recipe. It will add more fiber to your meal.
What can I substitute for the heavy cream?
You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep since it stores well and can be reheated easily throughout the week.
Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli & Red Peppers
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz penne pasta Cook according to package instructions.
- 2 tbsp olive oil For cooking the chicken.
- Salt & pepper, to taste For seasoning.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh broccoli.
- 1 red bell pepper sliced Add to skillet.
Sauce and Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced Cook until browned and cooked through.
- 1 cup heavy cream For the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For flavor and creaminess.
- 1 tsp garlic powder For seasoning.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning For additional flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add broccoli and red pepper to the skillet, cooking until tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the cooked penne with the creamy chicken mixture and mix well. Serve hot.
