The Creamiest Tuscan Chicken With Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe

Tuscan magic emerges when creamy broccoli alfredo penne meets succulent chicken in a dish that transports you straight to Italian countryside kitchens.

Comfort blends seamlessly with elegant flavors in this one-pot wonder.

Rich parmesan and tender chicken create a symphony of taste that feels both familiar and exciting.

Fragrant herbs dance through the sauce, promising a delightful culinary adventure.

Delicate penne pasta catches every droplet of the velvety alfredo, ensuring maximum flavor in each bite.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this restaurant-quality meal you can craft in your own kitchen.

Prepare to fall in love with a recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary feast.

Ingredients to Cook Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Penne

• Chicken Breasts: The main protein that adds a hearty and satisfying element to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: A flavorful cheese that provides a rich and tangy taste to the sauce.

• Garlic: A aromatic ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach: Fresh ingredients that add depth and nutrition to the creamy sauce.
• Fresh Basil: A fragrant herb that provides a bright, fresh garnish.

• Penne Pasta: A classic pasta shape that perfectly captures the creamy sauce.
• Olive Oil: A cooking fat that helps sear the chicken and add richness.
• Chicken Broth: A liquid that adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth and luxurious texture for the Alfredo sauce.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Essential spices that bring out the savory flavors of the chicken and sauce.

Stepwise Guide to Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Penne

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Grab a large pot and fill it with water. Sprinkle in some salt.

Let the water reach a rolling boil. Drop in the penne pasta and cook until perfectly tender.

Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear Chicken

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning

Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat.

Carefully place the chicken breasts and cook until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Ensure the chicken is completely cooked through.

Transfer to a cutting board and slice into delectable strips.

Step 3: Craft Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and let it sizzle briefly.

• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Fresh spinach

Sauté until the spinach becomes wonderfully wilted. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.

Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken, creating a luxurious sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Coat

Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Stir until the cheese melts completely and blends into the sauce. Add the cooked penne and sliced chicken.

Gently toss everything together, ensuring each piece is lavishly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Transfer the pasta to serving plates.

If desired, scatter some fresh basil leaves on top for an extra burst of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this Tuscan-inspired dish.

Tips to Perfect Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Penne

• Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in the dish and prevent over-seasoning.
• Use gluten-free penne for a celiac-friendly version without compromising the creamy texture.
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk to reduce calories while maintaining richness.
• Enhance protein content by adding grilled shrimp or crispy bacon bits as delicious alternative toppings.
• Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety and perfect doneness.

Flavor Variations to Try With Tuscan Chicken Alfredo

• Vegetarian Alfredo Delight: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or grilled portobello mushrooms for a plant-based protein option.
• Gluten-Free Penne Path: Swap regular penne with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Lighter Cream Alternative: Use Greek yogurt or coconut cream instead of heavy cream to reduce calories and create a tangy, healthier sauce.
• Spicy Mediterranean Kick: Add red pepper flakes, swap spinach for kale, and include sun-dried tomato pesto for an extra zesty flavor profile.

Pairings That Work Well With Tuscan Chicken Alfredo

• Choose a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy, rich sauce with its bright acidity and light, refreshing profile.
• Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the heavy pasta dish.
• Prepare crusty Italian bread brushed with garlic butter and toasted to golden brown, perfect for soaking up the delicious Alfredo sauce.
• Prepare a colorful mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus roasted with olive oil and herbs to add freshness and nutrition to the meal.

Storage Advice to Keep Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Fresh

• Refrigerator Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the dish sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odor absorption.
• Freezer Storage: Carefully pack the chicken and pasta in a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the dish with fresh basil garnish.
• Microwave Reheating: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water or extra cream to prevent drying. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture and prevent sticking.

FAQs

• What's the key to perfectly cooked chicken?

Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown, ensuring it’s fully cooked through without drying out.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

• Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, use less Parmesan, and add more vegetables like broccoli to increase nutritional value while reducing calories.

• What herbs work best in this recipe?

Fresh basil is excellent, but you can also use dried oregano, thyme, or fresh parsley to enhance the Tuscan-inspired flavors of the dish.

Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Penne That Charms Taste Buds

• Boost Flavor Complexity: Packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan, this recipe delivers a gourmet taste profile that transforms a simple chicken pasta into a restaurant-worthy meal.
• Quick Single-Skillet Solution: Minimize kitchen cleanup by preparing the entire dish in one pan, reducing washing time and simplifying the cooking process for busy home chefs.
• Protein-Packed Dinner Winner: Combining tender chicken breast with creamy pasta creates a satisfying meal that keeps hunger at bay and provides essential nutrients for the whole family.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like chicken for shrimp or add extra vegetables to personalize the dish without compromising its delicious core flavor profile.

Tuscan Chicken With Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Savory Tuscan chicken with creamy broccoli alfredo penne celebrates Italian-inspired comfort cuisine. Rich parmesan sauce and tender chicken create a satisfying meal you will crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• 12 ounces (oz) penne pasta
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon (tbsp) olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon (tsp) Italian seasoning
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare a large pot of salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat at 375°F. Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board and slice thinly.
3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until aromatic. Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking 2-3 minutes until spinach becomes wilted and vibrant green.
4. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, creating a simmering sauce. Reduce heat and let mixture thicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
5. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
6. Add cooked penne and sliced chicken to the sauce, gently tossing to ensure thorough coating and even distribution of ingredients.
7. Plate immediately and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an elegant touch and additional aromatic flavor.

Notes

• Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content and create a lighter version of the dish.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a healthier, lower-calorie alternative that maintains creamy texture.
• Cut chicken into smaller, bite-sized pieces before cooking to ensure even seasoning and faster, more uniform cooking.
• Steam broccoli separately and add at the end to preserve its vibrant green color and prevent overcooking, maintaining a crisp texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 610 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 470 mg
• Fat: 33 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 39 g
• Cholesterol: 135 mg