Description
A rich and flavorful creamy chicken pasta featuring tender chicken breasts, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes all tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This easy 30-minute dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and serves four.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Dairy and Liquids
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later use.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and spices: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Cook vegetables: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach has wilted.
- Add liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add cheese and seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and the chicken is heated through.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve: Plate the creamy chicken pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add more flavor; drain oil lightly before chopping.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
