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
- 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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked penne and sliced chicken to the sauce, gently tossing to ensure thorough coating and even distribution of ingredients.
- 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