This Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Penne is the kind of dish I make when I want comfort without spending hours in the kitchen. It feels warm, filling, and satisfying, yet still fresh enough to enjoy any time of year.
I often turn to this recipe for dinner after a long day or for a relaxed weekend lunch. The creamy tomato sauce clings to the penne, the chicken makes it hearty, and the broccoli adds a light, balanced bite.
It’s simple enough for busy days but special enough to serve when you want something a little nicer. Here’s a quick look at what this recipe offers before we get started.
Quick Recipe Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | Approx. 520 per serving |
| Protein | High |
| Carbohydrates | Moderate |
| Fat | Moderate |
| Gluten-Free | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Kid-Friendly | Yes |
| Best For | Lunch or Dinner |
| Cuisine Style | Italian-inspired |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish delivers creamy flavor without feeling too heavy. The tomato and cream combination stays smooth and comforting.
It’s a complete meal in one bowl with chicken, pasta, and vegetables. I like not needing extra sides to feel satisfied.
The ingredients are simple and easy to find. You can make this with everyday pantry items.
It stores and reheats well. That makes it great for leftovers or next-day meals.
Ingredients to Make Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Penne
This recipe uses familiar ingredients that work together beautifully. Each one adds something important to the final dish.
Penne Pasta – 12 ounces
Penne holds the sauce well because of its ridges. It keeps its shape after mixing.
Chicken Breast – 1 pound, boneless and skinless
Chicken breast adds lean protein and mild flavor. It absorbs the sauce while staying tender.
Broccoli Florets – 2 cups
Broccoli adds freshness and texture. It balances the richness of the sauce.
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
Olive oil helps cook the chicken evenly. It also adds subtle flavor.
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Garlic builds a savory base. It brings aroma and depth to the sauce.
Crushed Tomatoes – 1 can (14 ounces)
Crushed tomatoes form the heart of the sauce. They give it body and color.
Heavy Cream – 1 cup
Heavy cream creates a smooth, rich texture. It softens the acidity of the tomatoes.
Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, grated
Parmesan adds saltiness and umami. It also helps thicken the sauce.
Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Italian seasoning adds gentle herbal notes. It complements the tomato base.
Salt – to taste
Salt enhances every flavor. Add it gradually.
Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon
Black pepper adds warmth. It balances the creaminess.
Red Pepper Flakes – optional, to taste
Red pepper flakes add light heat. They are easy to adjust.
Steps to Make Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Penne
This recipe follows simple steps that build flavor slowly. Taking your time makes a big difference.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside while keeping it warm.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and add the chicken. Cook until golden and fully done, then remove and set aside. Dice the chicken into little pieces.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add minced garlic to the same pan and cook briefly. Stir constantly to avoid burning.
Step 4: Make the Tomato Base
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently to deepen flavor.
Step 5: Add the Cream
Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce thicken slightly.
Step 6: Cook the Broccoli
Add broccoli to the sauce and cook until tender but bright. This keeps it fresh and crisp.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the chicken to the pan and add the cooked pasta. Toss until everything is coated evenly.
Step 8: Finish and Season
Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning. Serve warm once the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Penne is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a few extras can elevate the meal. A simple side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
Garlic bread or a warm baguette works beautifully to soak up the rich sauce. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley on top to make it visually appealing and boost flavor.
For a lighter option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the veggies can add a subtle sweetness that complements the creamy tomato sauce.
This dish also pairs well with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon. Serving in shallow bowls rather than deep plates allows the sauce to coat each forkful perfectly.
Meal Prep Tips: Can We Make Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Penne in Advance?
Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time, which makes it perfect for busy weekdays. You can cook the chicken, broccoli, and pasta separately, then store them in airtight containers until ready to combine.
The sauce can be made in advance as well. Simply prepare the tomato cream sauce, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before tossing with the pasta and chicken.
When storing, keep the pasta slightly undercooked so it doesn’t become mushy when reheated. Combine everything just before serving to retain freshness and texture.
For a fully assembled make-ahead option, layer the pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce in a baking dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate; reheat in the oven until warmed through for a ready-to-eat dinner.
Cooking Tips
To make the perfect Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Penne, always cook the pasta al dente. Slightly undercooked pasta absorbs the sauce better and maintains a pleasant bite.
Cut chicken into uniform pieces so it cooks evenly and stays juicy. Avoid high heat when cooking the garlic; burned garlic can make the sauce bitter.
Simmer the sauce gently to allow flavors to meld without curdling the cream. Stir frequently and add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
For extra flavor, finish the pasta with a small pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and seasonings just before serving.
Variations of Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Penne
You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your preferences. Swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Use different vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas for variety. Each option adds a unique texture and flavor to the creamy base.
For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream alternative. This keeps the sauce creamy but reduces calories and fat.
Adding fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme enhances the freshness and aroma. A pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder can give it a subtle kick if you prefer spice.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce together or separately, depending on your preference.
Freezing is also possible, but some pasta types can become soft after thawing. If freezing, undercook the pasta slightly, let everything cool completely, and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Can We Reheat Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Penne
Yes, reheating this pasta is easy and works well without losing flavor. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating.
You can also use a microwave, but cover the dish to retain moisture. Add a splash of water, milk, or cream while reheating to keep the sauce smooth.
Avoid high heat or overcooking during reheating as this can make the pasta mushy. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving to ensure it remains flavorful.
Recipe FAQS
Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free penne pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely. Add it directly to the sauce and cook slightly longer than fresh broccoli.
Can I make this dairy-free? Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Can I add other vegetables? Yes, zucchini, spinach, peas, or bell peppers all work well and add more color and nutrition.
How can I make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce or sprinkle some chili powder for a subtle heat.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, reduce cooking time slightly and add it to the sauce just to heat through.
Is this dish kid-friendly? Definitely. You can reduce spices and serve with extra cheese for a version children will love.
Conclusion
Creamy Tomato Chicken and Broccoli Penne is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines comfort, flavor, and balance. With tender chicken, bright broccoli, and a rich tomato cream sauce, it works for lunch, dinner, or leftovers.
The recipe is flexible, easy to prep ahead, and stores well without losing taste. With these tips, variations, and serving suggestions, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this pasta dish delivers creamy satisfaction in every bite. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a memorable, comforting meal.
