1-First Step: Prepare Your Ingredients Start by combining the seasoning ingredients 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings, ½ teaspoon mustard powder, and 1 pinch red pepper flakes if using and set them aside. Measure out all other ingredients before you begin to make the process smooth and efficient. This mise en place approach helps avoid any rushing and ensures everything is ready, which is key for home cooks aiming for a stress-free meal.

2-Second Step: Season and Cook the Chicken Cut the 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast into ¾-inch pieces and season it with lemon pepper seasoning for a flavorful base. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until it turns golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest, locking in its juices for tender results.

3-Third Step: Boil the Pasta and Broccoli Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. While that’s heating, add ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth) to the same skillet over medium heat, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom to infuse extra flavor. Let the wine reduce by half, about 4 minutes, then add 3 tablespoons butter and 3 cloves garlic, cooking for 1 minute to build a fragrant base.

4-Fourth Step: Make the Sauce Stir in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously to create a roux that thickens the sauce. Gradually add 3/4 cup chicken broth and 1 ¼ cups half and half in small splashes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a creamy texture. Add 1 teaspoon hot sauce and the reserved seasonings, then bring the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer and partially covering the skillet.

5-Fifth Step: Cook Pasta and Add Broccoli Boil the ½ pound Penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. In the last 4 minutes of cooking, add 2 ½ cups broccoli florets to the pasta water so they cook together and stay vibrant green. Once done, drain the pasta and broccoli to prepare for mixing.

6-Sixth Step: Finish the Sauce and Combine Reduce the sauce heat to low and slowly stir in ¾ cup Parmesan cheese and ¼ cup Asiago cheese until melted and smooth, taking care not to make it grainy. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice slowly to prevent curdling, adding that fresh zing. Finally, add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the sauce, stirring to combine and seasoning with salt if needed. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.