Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne

Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. The creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasonings creates a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for easy substitutions based on what you have at home while still maintaining its deliciousness.
• Creamy Texture: The blend of heavy cream and cheeses gives this dish an irresistible creamy taste that pairs perfectly with the pasta and chicken.
• Healthy Vegetables: Adding broccoli not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta and ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and creating the creamy sauce all in one pan.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thick slices
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For the Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter

Garnish

• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Boil salted water in a large pot.
2. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water.
3. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets.
5. Drain both pasta and broccoli using a colander, then set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season chicken slices with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Sear chicken slices until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir well.
4. Add grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Simmer for about 5 minutes until sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

1. Return cooked pasta, broccoli, and seared chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.
2. Gently toss everything together until well coated in the creamy Tuscan Alfredo sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Top with fresh parsley or basil for garnish.
2. Serve warm with extra cheese if desired.

Enjoy your Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne

Serving Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne is all about presentation and enhancing flavors. Here are some delightful ways to serve this delicious dish.

With Extra Cheese

• Top each serving with additional grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella for an extra cheesy experience.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce, making the meal even more satisfying.

Side Salad

• Pair with a light side salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Lemon Wedges

• Offer lemon wedges on the side for those who prefer a bright citrus kick to cut through the creaminess.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne

Perfecting this dish requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne turns out great every time.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh broccoli, garlic, and herbs will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Cook pasta al dente: Make sure not to overcook your penne; it should have a slight bite to hold up in the creamy sauce.
• Sear chicken properly: Searing chicken until golden brown adds depth of flavor that enhances the finished dish.
• Adjust creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for richness.
• Let sauce thicken: Allowing the sauce to simmer will create a silky texture that clings beautifully to the pasta.
• Taste as you go: Always taste your sauce before serving; you may want to adjust seasoning or add more cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne

Complementing your main dish with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here’s a list of perfect side dishes for Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that pairs well, providing a crunchy texture that complements the creamy pasta.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the main dish.
3. Steamed Green Beans
   Simple steamed green beans offer a light and nutritious contrast full of vibrant color.
4. Roasted Asparagus
   Seasoned roasted asparagus brings an earthy flavor that enhances your dining experience.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide brightness alongside rich flavors.
6. Grilled Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal grilled vegetables adds both flavor and nutrition, making for a well-rounded meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not salting the pasta water: Pasta should be cooked in well-salted water to enhance its flavor. Always add salt before boiling the water.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Sear until golden brown and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices. Let it sit for a few minutes before slicing.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Adding cheese to a hot sauce too fast can cause clumping. Gradually stir in cheese when the sauce is simmering gently.
• Using low-quality cream: For a rich Alfredo sauce, use heavy cream. Low-fat alternatives may not provide the desired creaminess or flavor.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds brightness to your dish. Don’t skip this garnish; it elevates both taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Keep frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute broccoli with spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on your preference.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make it lighter, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or adding more vegetables while reducing pasta.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook everything ahead of time and reheat just before serving for convenience.

What should I serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, try using diced fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or adjusting flavors to suit your taste. Give it a try—your family will love it!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Penne is a delectable dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked penne pasta. This recipe is designed for those who appreciate rich flavors without the hassle of lengthy preparation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot, cook penne pasta until al dente (8-10 minutes), adding broccoli florets in the last 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Sear in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown (4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic with sun-dried tomatoes for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and chicken broth; stir well.
4. Mix in cheeses and simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).
5. Combine pasta, broccoli, and chicken with the sauce; toss gently to coat.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 19g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg