Description
This Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender pan-seared chicken breasts with a creamy Alfredo sauce enhanced by sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Served over perfectly cooked penne pasta, this meal offers a comforting balance of creamy textures and robust Italian-inspired flavors, perfect 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
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 package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In 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 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy Tuscan chicken Alfredo pasta to plates and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- You can substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness; use oil-packed for more richness or dry-packed with rehydration.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother melt and richer flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently to prevent sauce separation.
