If you are craving something that brings the warmth and richness of Italy right to your dining table, the Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish perfectly balances tender, seasoned chicken with a luscious creamy Alfredo sauce that hugs every twist of penne pasta. With the vibrant colors and subtle textures of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese, you get a meal that is both comforting and impressive, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each one is essential to creating that creamy, flavorful dish that you’ll want to make time and time again.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, providing juicy, tender bites with every forkful.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Perfectly shaped to catch the creamy sauce in every nook and cranny.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps in searing the chicken to a golden brown.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These bring a sweet, tangy burst that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color, a hint of earthiness, and a nutrition boost.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and savory flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The backbone of that unbelievably creamy Alfredo sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Balances the richness and adds subtle savory notes.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce to create that signature cheesy goodness.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings an authentic Tuscan flair.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, fragrant finish to the dish.
How to Make Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a roaring boil. Toss in the penne pasta and cook it according to package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta well and set it aside—this will soon soak up all the creamy goodness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season those chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then add the chicken. Sear each side for about 6 to 7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly—this helps keep it juicy.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, don’t clean out the browned bits—they’re full of flavor! Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until you can smell that irresistible aroma. Then stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Let the spinach wilt gently, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes, which will bring freshness and color to the sauce.
Step 4: Simmer the Creamy Sauce
Next, pour in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream. Turn the heat down and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and starts to coat the back of your spoon. This slow simmering infuses the sauce with all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Now for the grand coming together! Stir in your grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt completely into that velvety sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything carefully so each piece is luxuriously coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce. This is where the magic of the Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe comes alive.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Serve the dish piping hot. If you like, add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a burst of freshness and a beautiful finishing touch. This dish shines best when enjoyed right away, while it’s creamy and warm.
How to Serve Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil isn’t just for color—it adds a subtle herbal note that balances the richness of the sauce. You could also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese for more cheesy goodness or a crack of fresh black pepper for a gentle kick. A light drizzle of olive oil right before serving adds a silky finish.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf is also a fantastic companion to soak up any leftover sauce. For something lighter, steamed or roasted broccoli complements the meal perfectly without overwhelming the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider serving the Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe in individual rustic bowls for a cozy, inviting look. You could also plate the pasta on one side, then fan the sliced chicken breast artistically alongside it, finishing with fresh herbs sprinkled on top. A pop of color from a halved cherry tomato or roasted pepper can add to the visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish reheats beautifully, so go ahead and make extra! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together nicely after resting, making it an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the cream sauce may separate a bit when thawed, but stirring gently during reheating usually restores the texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it thickened too much. Microwaving in short bursts with stirring in between is also a quick alternative.
FAQs
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Just adjust cooking times to suit the protein you choose.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. Also, using whole wheat or vegetable-based pasta can make it a tad healthier.
How can I add broccoli to this recipe?
For a lovely veggie boost, steam or blanch broccoli florets and toss them in with the pasta during the final combining step. This adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color to your Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s a delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and herbaceous flavors beautifully. If you prefer red, a light-bodied Pinot Noir works nicely without overpowering the meal.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and homey, perfect for making dinner time memorable. I can’t encourage you enough to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food that doubles as show-stopping company-worthy fare!
Print
Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts, al dente penne pasta, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a delightful balance of savory flavors and creamy textures in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce Ingredients
- 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
Garnish
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well 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. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, allow it to rest briefly, then slice thinly.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together to evenly coat with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the Tuscan Chicken Alfredo penne to serving plates and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lower fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- If you prefer a stronger tomato flavor, add extra sun-dried tomatoes or a small amount of tomato paste.
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken breasts to keep them juicy and tender.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor results.
- Fresh basil is optional but adds a vibrant aroma and color to the dish.
