Description
This pasta is pure Italian-inspired comfort: juicy chicken, garlicky cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender spinach tossed with penne. The Parmesan brings richness, while Italian herbs and a pinch of red pepper flakes add depth and warmth. It’s hearty, creamy, and elegant enough to serve for guests yet easy enough for a weeknight.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, diced
12 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3 cups fresh spinach
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Cook in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant. Stir in cream, broth, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Add Parmesan, then stir until smooth. Toss in spinach until just wilted.
Return chicken to the pan, add pasta, and toss everything together. Adjust consistency with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 590
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 36g