Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne Easy Dinner Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups penne pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• to taste salt and pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• for garnish fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Add the cooked chicken, broccoli, and penne pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Serve the creamy broccoli chicken penne in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an appealing look.