Introduction

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Penne is a perfect combination of crispy, flavorful chicken, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and roasted broccoli tossed with tender penne pasta. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a special occasion.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is inspired by classic Italian-American cuisine, which embraces bold flavors and creamy, cheese-infused sauces. Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs are staple ingredients in many Mediterranean dishes, and they bring a rich depth of flavor to this recipe. Roasting broccoli enhances its natural sweetness and crisp texture, making it a delicious contrast to the creamy pasta. This dish embodies the essence of comfort food with a gourmet twist—hearty, cheesy, and full of robust flavors.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced, divided
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta & Broccoli:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Optional Additions

• Mushrooms – Sautéed for extra flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a tangy sweetness.
• Spinach – Tossed in at the end for added greens.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melted on top for extra cheesiness.
• Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta – A healthier alternative.

Tips for Success

✅ Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Pre-packaged cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
✅ Don’t overcook the pasta – Cook it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
✅ Let the chicken rest before slicing – Keeps it juicy and flavorful.
✅ Adjust the sauce consistency – Add more broth if it’s too thick, or more Parmesan if you want it creamier.
✅ Roast the broccoli properly – High heat (425°F) ensures crispy edges and deep flavor.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ½ cup Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp olive oil, half the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Coat the top of each with the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

2. Roast the Broccoli:

4. On another baking sheet, toss broccoli florets with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Place both trays in the oven:
   • Roast chicken for 20-25 minutes (until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C)).
   • Roast broccoli for 15-20 minutes (until crispy on the edges).

3. Cook the Pasta:

6. Meanwhile, cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

7. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
8. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
9. Reduce heat to medium-low and add heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
10. Stir in the remaining ½ cup Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
11. Add lemon zest and juice, stirring to combine.

5. Assemble the Dish:

12. Add the cooked pasta and roasted broccoli to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
13. Slice the roasted chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
14. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using).

Description

This dish combines the crispy, cheesy goodness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken with a velvety, creamy pasta sauce and perfectly roasted broccoli. The Parmesan crust on the chicken gives it a deliciously savory crunch, while the lemon-infused garlic-Parmesan sauce adds a rich and zesty contrast. Every bite is a harmony of textures and flavors, making this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: ~650 kcal
• Protein: ~45g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fat: ~30g
• Fiber: ~5g
• Sodium: ~600mg
  (Note: Values may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.)

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Roasted Broccoli Penne is the ultimate comfort meal, combining crispy, tender chicken with a rich and creamy pasta. The roasted broccoli adds a healthy crunch, balancing out the indulgence. This dish is easy to prepare but fancy enough for a special occasion—a guaranteed hit at the dinner table!

Recommendation

Serve this dish with:

• Garlic bread – To soak up that delicious sauce.
• A fresh side salad – Lightens up the meal.
• A crisp white wine – Pairs beautifully with the creamy Parmesan sauce.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s texture.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To make this dish lighter and healthier:
✔ Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to cut down on fat.
✔ Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
✔ Reduce cheese slightly and add nutritional yeast for a lighter cheesy flavor.
✔ Increase the broccoli or add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrients.

Enjoy a deliciously balanced meal that satisfies your cravings without compromising nutrition!