Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a simmer.

4. Add Cheese and Thicken:
   Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce begins to thicken. Add red pepper flakes if desired.

5. Combine:
   Return the cooked chicken, penne pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.

6. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information:

• ⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

• 🔥 Kcal: 520 kcal per serving | 🍽️ Servings: 4 servings