Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances rich, creamy textures with vibrant flavors, Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne is the ultimate comfort meal. This recipe features juicy, well-seasoned chicken cooked in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, all served over a bed of creamy Alfredo pasta with broccoli. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and packed with nutrients.

Whether you’re preparing a meal for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just craving a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender grilled chicken, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a go-to favorite for both weeknight meals and fancy gatherings.

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Ingredients

For the Tuscan Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne:

• 8 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta)
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Tuscan Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic & Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes & Spinach: Stir in cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Cook until softened.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and let it melt into a smooth sauce.
4. Simmer with Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the pan, letting it simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the Penne: Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
3. Drain & Set Aside: Drain the pasta and broccoli, then set aside.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add Cream & Milk: Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly.
3. Melt Parmesan Cheese: Add grated Parmesan and whisk until smooth.
4. Season & Combine: Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Toss in the cooked pasta and broccoli, mixing to coat evenly.

Step 5: Assemble & Serve

1. Plate the Pasta: Serve the creamy Alfredo broccoli penne as the base.
2. Top with Tuscan Chicken: Place the cooked Tuscan chicken on top.
3. Drizzle with Extra Sauce: Spoon over additional sauce from the pan.
4. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil, parsley, or extra Parmesan cheese.
5. Enjoy Hot: Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad on the side.

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Tips & Variations

1. Protein Alternatives

• Substitute the chicken with shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a unique twist.

2. Make It Lighter

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier option.

3. Boost the Vegetables

• Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus for extra nutrition and flavor.

4. Add Spice

• Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

5. Storage & Meal Prep

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating Tip: Warm up with a splash of milk or chicken broth to maintain creaminess.

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Conclusion

Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne is a restaurant-quality meal that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. The juicy, well-seasoned chicken, combined with a rich, garlicky sauce and creamy pasta, creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a special dinner, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. Try it today, and enjoy a taste of Tuscany in your own home!

Happy cooking! 🍽️