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Creamy chicken and broccoli pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, fresh broccoli, and a rich Parmesan cheese sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for quick weeknight dinners or as a comforting meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast
Lemon pepper seasoning, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

½ cup dry white wine (see notes for substitutions)
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons flour
¾ cup chicken broth
1 ¼ cups half and half
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon mustard powder
1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Pasta and Broccoli:

2 ½ cups broccoli florets
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup grated Asiago cheese (or substitute with additional Parmesan)
½ pound penne pasta
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

Prep Work

Measure out all ingredients and combine the seasoning ingredients for easy cooking.
Cut the chicken into ¾-inch pieces and coat it with lemon pepper seasoning.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Prepare the Sauce

Using the same skillet, add the white wine and set the heat to medium. Use a silicone spatula to scrape the flavorful bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, about 4 minutes.
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually add the chicken broth in small splashes, stirring continuously to create a smooth base. Repeat the process with the half and half. Add hot sauce, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, reduce to a simmer, and cover partially.

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta to al dente according to package instructions.
During the last 4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain both pasta and broccoli.

Finish the Sauce

Reduce the heat of the sauce to low and slowly stir in the Parmesan and Asiago cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine and heat through.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Balanced Flavors: Creamy, cheesy sauce with a zesty hint of lemon and perfectly cooked chicken and broccoli.
Quick and Easy: Ideal for busy weeknights without compromising on taste.
Family-Friendly: A wholesome meal packed with protein and vegetables.

Tips

Prep Ahead: Measure and prepare all ingredients before cooking for a seamless process.
Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan and Asiago for a smooth and flavorful sauce.
Cooking Chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken by ensuring the skillet is preheated before searing.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu.
Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Pasta Choices: Substitute penne with fettuccine, rigatoni, or gluten-free pasta.
Wine Substitute: Replace white wine with chicken broth or vegetable stock.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Store the sauce, chicken, and pasta separately in the refrigerator. Combine and reheat before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or half and half to refresh the sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate upon reheating.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve this Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with a slice of crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon for a delightful dining experience.