Description
A delicious and creamy Tuscan Chicken with Broccoli Alfredo Penne combining tender seasoned chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This flavorful and comforting dish is ready in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and chicken thoroughly in the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Serve: Plate the Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired, for an extra burst of fresh flavor.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta to maintain a firm texture that holds up to the rich sauce.
- Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain the juices and ensures tender slices.
- You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers if preferred.
- To lighten the dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce may be less rich.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and adds more flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
