If you’re looking for a truly comforting and indulgent meal that brings a touch of Italy right to your dinner table, this Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken nestled beside tender broccoli and al dente pasta, all swirled in a luscious, cheesy Alfredo sauce with just the right hint of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is a heartwarming celebration of flavor and texture that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you—each element is simple, easy to find, and thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that make this dish pop. From fresh broccoli to creamy cheeses, every bite promises something special.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for leaner protein; both work beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for getting that golden crust on your chicken and adding richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs bringing that familiar Tuscan warmth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle depth, enhancing the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers mild smoky notes and a hint of color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The foundations of flavor.
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched): Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast and vibrant green color.
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice): Perfect for holding on to that creamy sauce.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient that creates that luscious silky sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers salty, nutty richness that defines Alfredo sauce.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Gives a melty, gooey texture that brings everything together.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps thin the sauce just enough.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For that luxurious mouthfeel and golden garlic sauté.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic amps up the aroma and flavor.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional): A burst of tangy sweetness that elevates the dish.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh, herby finish and brightens the plate.
How to Make Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions to achieve that perfect al dente bite. When there are just 2-3 minutes left, toss the broccoli florets into the boiling water so they steam alongside your pasta, locking in that brilliant green color and a satisfying crunch. Drain both and set them aside; they’ll soon soak up all that creamy goodness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Pat your chicken dry and season it thoroughly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, then cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown with a beautiful crust and cooked through inside. Remove it from the pan and slice it into strips once slightly cooled.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Using the same skillet to trap all those flavorful browned bits, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant — about a minute — so it doesn’t burn but releases its irresistible aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, then add the heavy cream. Stir often as the sauce thickens over 3-4 minutes, building a creamy base you’ll want to dive into.
Step 4: Combine Cheese and Sauce
Time to add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously so they melt smoothly into the cream, transforming it into a rich, cheesy sauce with incredible texture. The sauce should coat your spoon and cling to your pasta beautifully.
Step 5: Add Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken
Return the cooked penne and broccoli to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure every piece is enveloped in that sumptuous Alfredo sauce. Top it with the sliced chicken and, if you’re feeling adventurous, sun-dried tomatoes for sweet-tart bursts of flavor. Give everything a gentle stir to combine without breaking up the chicken.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
Before serving, scatter fresh basil or parsley over the top for a refreshing herbal note and a pop of color. Serve immediately while warm, creamy, and bursting with the comforting flavors that make this Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe unforgettable.
How to Serve Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley are not just decorative; they bring a bright, fresh contrast that lifts the richness of the creamy sauce. You can also sprinkle extra grated Parmesan for an elegant finish or even a crack of freshly ground black pepper for a little warmth.
Side Dishes
This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread can balance the meal perfectly. The salad adds a refreshing crunch while garlic bread is great for mopping up every last drop of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe in a family-style rustic bowl to encourage sharing and warmth. Alternatively, arrange the chicken strips atop each individual plate of pasta and drizzle with extra sauce for a restaurant-worthy touch. For a vibrant twist, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes can add texture and visual interest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. You might notice the sauce thickens as it cools—simply add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to return it to that creamy perfection.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, separate the chicken and pasta with sauce into a freezer-safe container. Frozen, it can last up to 2 months. Just be mindful that broccoli may lose some texture after freezing, so it’s best to add fresh broccoli when reheating if possible.
Reheating
For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving works in a pinch, but take care to heat in short bursts to prevent the sauce from breaking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding onto the sauce, feel free to use rigatoni, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta based on your preferences.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheeses, but the flavor profile will shift slightly. Nutritional yeast can add some cheesy notes if you want to keep it vegan-friendly.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can cook the chicken, pasta, and sauce separately ahead of time and combine them just before serving to keep the sauce fresh and creamy.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes lightly sautéed can provide a similar sweet-tangy punch.
How can I make the chicken extra tender and juicy?
Marinating the chicken for 30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking helps keep it moist and flavorful. Also, avoid overcooking it in the pan by monitoring the cooking time carefully.
Final Thoughts
This Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe has all the warmth, indulgence, and bold flavors you could dream of in a homemade Italian-inspired dinner. It’s straightforward yet impressive, comforting without being heavy, and always a crowd-pleaser. I truly hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do!
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Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender seasoned chicken with a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce, steamed broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. The sauce blends heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, creating a luscious coating for the pasta and veggies. Finished with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor, this meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional, for added flavor)
For Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta and broccoli: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets directly into the pasta water to steam them. Once cooked, drain both the pasta and broccoli and set them aside.
- Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Once slightly cooled, slice the chicken into strips.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add cheeses to the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue cooking and stirring until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine pasta and broccoli with sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta and steamed broccoli florets to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together carefully to ensure the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Add chicken and optional sun-dried tomatoes: Place the sliced chicken over the pasta and broccoli mixture. Add sun-dried tomatoes if using. Gently stir to combine all ingredients without breaking up the chicken too much.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve the Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne hot for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness but can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Ensure not to overcook the broccoli while steaming so it retains a nice crunch and vibrant green color.
- This recipe can be made ahead; refrigerate the sauce separately to prevent the cheese from thickening too much before reheating gently on the stovetop.
- Using chicken thighs instead of breasts will result in a juicier, more flavorful protein.
