Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli and Penne – A Creamy, Irresistible Delight

 Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli and Penne – A Creamy, Irresistible Delight

Introduction

If you're craving a meal that's rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli and Penne. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy garlic butter sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Whether you're cooking for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a quick and easy recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavors in under 30 minutes. The combination of savory garlic, buttery chicken, and wholesome broccoli makes this a balanced meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.

---

Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, providing lean protein and a juicy texture.

1 teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a deep, savory garlic note to the chicken.

½ teaspoon paprika – Gives the chicken a beautiful golden-brown color and a subtle smoky flavor.

2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.

For the Pasta

2 cups penne pasta – A sturdy pasta that holds the sauce well while offering a satisfying bite.

6 cups water – Essential for cooking the pasta to al dente.

1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the pasta’s flavor as it cooks.

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

3 tablespoons unsalted butter – The base of the sauce, adding richness and depth.

4 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic flavor.

1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luscious, creamy consistency.

½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated) – Adds a nutty, salty depth while thickening the sauce.

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings a subtle earthy flavor.

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Provides a gentle heat that balances the creamy sauce.

For the Broccoli

2 cups fresh broccoli florets – A nutrient-packed veggie that adds color, crunch, and freshness.

1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sauté the broccoli to bring out its natural sweetness.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring 6 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot.

2. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 2 cups of penne pasta.

3. Cook until al dente (usually around 10 minutes), then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare & Cook the Chicken

1. Pat 2 chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.

2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).

5. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing.

3. Sauté the Broccoli

1. In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the broccoli florets.

2. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.

3. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Lower the heat and melt 3 tablespoons of butter in the same pan.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine.

4. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).

5. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).

5. Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce.

2. Toss everything to coat evenly.

3. Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the pasta.

4. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for an elegant finish.

---

Why This Recipe is Loved

✔ Full of Flavor – The garlic butter sauce, combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a mouthwatering dish.

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

✔ One-Pan Wonder – Less cleanup with a streamlined cooking process.

✔ Nutritious & Balanced – Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from the broccoli.

---

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

✔ Use Fresh Garlic – It delivers a more intense, aromatic flavor than pre-minced garlic.

✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cooking it al dente helps maintain texture and prevents mushiness.

✔ Let the Chicken Rest – Resting the chicken for a few minutes after cooking ensures it stays juicy.

✔ Add Lemon Zest – For a refreshing touch, add a bit of lemon zest to the sauce at the end.

---

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli and Penne with:

✔ A Crisp Side Salad – A light arugula or Caesar salad complements the richness of the dish.

✔ Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

✔ A Glass of White Wine – A dry Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the garlic and butter flavors.

---

Final Thoughts – A Must-Try Recipe for Pasta Lovers

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Broccoli and Penne is the ultimate comfort food, packed with bold flavors and a creamy, dreamy texture. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce.

Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this restaurant-worthy recipe is guaranteed to 

be a family favorite. Give it a try tonight, and let the flavors speak for themselves!

Want more delicious recipes like this? Share this with friends and save it for later!