Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne
Indulge in the bold flavors of Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne! This dish combines tender chicken breast, creamy garlic parmesan Alfredo sauce, and hearty penne pasta with the goodness of broccoli and sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of comfort and elegance.
For those who love creamy chicken-based dishes, check out this Creamy Chicken Wraps recipe for another delicious meal idea.
Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Rich and Creamy – A velvety Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
Hearty and Filling – Penne pasta, chicken, and broccoli make this a well-balanced meal.
Easy One-Pan Meal – Cook everything in one pan for easy cleanup.
Tuscan-Inspired Flavors – Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs add authentic depth.
Ingredients for Tuscan Chicken Pasta
For the Pasta & Chicken:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Additions:
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Step-by-Step Tuscan Chicken Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken strips with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from pan and set aside.
For more tips on how to cook juicy chicken breasts, visit The Kitchn’s expert guide.
3. Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously.
- Add parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Add steamed broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, and cooked chicken to the sauce.
- Toss in the cooked penne pasta, stirring to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese.
Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Pair your Tuscan Chicken Alfredo with these simple yet delicious sides:
Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Caesar Salad – A crisp, refreshing contrast.
White Wine – Pair with Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Common Mistakes to Avoid while cooking Tuscan Chicken
Overcooking the chicken – Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Not stirring the sauce – Prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
Skipping the pasta water – Helps the sauce adhere to the pasta better.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?
Yes! Fettuccine, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta work well too.
2. Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?
For a low-carb option, substitute penne with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
3. How Do I Make It Dairy-Free?
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
4. Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
5. Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to revive the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne is a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy garlic Alfredo sauce combined with tender chicken, penne pasta, and fresh broccoli makes this a crowd-pleaser every time.