Craving a deliciously creamy pasta dish that's both quick and satisfying? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Penne Broccoli Pasta that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary! Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked penne, studded with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all embraced by a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce that'll make your taste buds dance with joy. This restaurant-quality meal comes together in just 25 minutes, proving that gourmet cooking can be effortless and incredibly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- During the last 3-4 minutes of pasta cooking, add the broccoli florets directly to the same pot to blanch them. This saves on dishes and cooks the broccoli perfectly.
- While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, ensure your cooked chicken is cubed and ready. You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or leftover roasted chicken.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander, shaking to remove excess water. Return the pasta and broccoli to the same pot.
- Add the Alfredo sauce to the pot and stir gently to coat the pasta and broccoli evenly.
- Fold in the cubed chicken, mixing carefully to distribute throughout the pasta.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir to incorporate.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy chicken penne broccoli pasta!
Tips
- • For the most flavorful result, use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken and grate your Parmesan cheese directly from a block for maximum flavor. • To keep your pasta perfectly al dente, set a timer and taste-test a piece a minute before the recommended cooking time. • Save time by cooking broccoli and pasta in the same pot, which not only reduces dishes but helps infuse subtle vegetable flavor throughout the dish. • If your Alfredo sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to create a silkier, more luxurious coating. • For extra richness, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or red pepper flakes to customize the flavor profile. • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
