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
Scale
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.
