Creamy Tuscan Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Penne
A comforting and indulgent pasta dish loaded with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and a creamy Alfredo sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
For the Pasta:
10 oz penne pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
For the Creamy Tuscan Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp pour oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp Italian seasoning
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
½ cup baby spinach (optional, for extra greens)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta & Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 10 minutes).
During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water.
Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Creamy Tuscan Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, pour oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly.
Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach (if using), cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked penne and broccoli to the sauce and toss to coat.
Return the chicken to the pan and stir everything together. Simmer for 2 more minutes until heated through.
Serve & Garnish
Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil (optional).
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks:
Want extra creaminess? Add ¼ cup of cream cheese to the sauce.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Don’t overcook the broccoli—adding it in the last few minutes of boiling the pasta keeps it tender but crisp.
Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a variation.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: ~600
Protein: ~40g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fats: ~30g
Fiber: ~5g
Sodium: ~500mg
A rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for pasta lovers!