Hereβs a comforting, flavorful Easy Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta with Broccoli & Roasted Red Pepper recipe ππ₯¦πΆ β perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
π Easy Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta
with Broccoli & Roasted Red Pepper
π Ingredients (Serves 4)
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12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
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2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 cup roasted red peppers (sliced, jarred or homemade)
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1 cup heavy cream
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Β½ cup chicken broth
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ΒΎ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Β½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: pinch red pepper flakes
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Optional garnish: fresh parsley or extra Parmesan
π©βπ³ Step-by-Step Directions
π₯ Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli
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Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
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Add penne and cook according to package directions.
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During the last 3 minutes, add broccoli to the same pot.
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Drain and set aside.
Tip: Reserve Β½ cup pasta water in case sauce needs thinning.
π Step 2: Cook the Chicken
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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Cook for 5β7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
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Remove chicken and set aside.
π§ Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
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In the same skillet, add minced garlic.
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SautΓ© for about 30 seconds (until fragrant).
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Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2β3 minutes.
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Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
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Add roasted red peppers.
If sauce is too thick β add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
π₯¦ Step 4: Combine Everything
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Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
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Add drained pasta and broccoli.
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Toss everything gently to coat evenly.
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Simmer 2β3 minutes until heated through.
πΏ Step 5: Finish & Serve
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Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
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Sprinkle with parsley and extra Parmesan.
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Serve warm.
π Optional Variations
β Add spinach or mushrooms
β Swap heavy cream for half-and-half (lighter version)
β Use grilled chicken for smoky flavor
β Add lemon zest for brightness
β± Time & Tips
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 20 minutes
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Total: About 35 minutes