Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate creamy chicken penne recipe featuring delicious broccoli and red peppers. This mouth-watering dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and flavorful vegetables makes this dish a favorite among pasta lovers. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees a satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the details of creating this comforting and delectable creamy chicken penne with broccoli and red peppers.
Ingredients
Before you start preparing this delightful dish, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
1. 1 lb chicken breast, diced
2. 12 oz penne pasta
3. 2 cups broccoli florets
4. 1 red bell pepper, sliced
5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
6. 1 cup heavy cream
7. 1 cup chicken broth
8. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Ensure you have all the ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
Steps
1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sautรฉ for a minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the broccoli florets and red bell pepper slices, cooking until slightly tender.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes.
6. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
7. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
8. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
Variations
If you want to add a twist to this classic recipe, consider trying these variations:
1. Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
2. Add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Use spinach instead of broccoli for a different green element in the dish.
4. Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your creamy chicken penne turns out perfectly:
1. Season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs for added flavor.
2. Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
3. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
4. Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this ultimate creamy chicken penne with broccoli and red peppers recipe is a delightful dish that will satisfy your cravings for a comforting and flavorful meal. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables come together harmoniously to create a dish that is both delicious and easy to make. Whether you are cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that will become a staple in your recipe collection.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Yes, feel free to substitute penne with your favorite pasta shape, such as fettuccine or rigatoni.
Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble them when ready to eat. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
Q: Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Ultimate Creamy Chicken Penne with Broccoli & Red Peppers
Indulge in the ultimate creamy chicken penne dish featuring tender chicken, broccoli, and red peppers in a luscious creamy sauce. This delectable meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a comforting night in.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
Directions
-
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
-
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sautรฉ for a minute until fragrant.
-
Stir in the broccoli florets and red bell pepper slices, cooking until slightly tender.
-
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes.
-
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
-
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
-
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
