If you’re searching for a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen, look no further than Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne. This delightful recipe perfectly marries tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy broccoli Alfredo sauce, served over al dente penne pasta. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients like fresh broccoli and lean chicken. The creamy texture of the Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with the vibrant green of the broccoli and the hearty penne, creating a colorful and appetizing plate that everyone will love.

In this article, we’ll guide you through each step of creating this delicious meal, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking process. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll find everything you need to make Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne a staple in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish truly exceptional!

Main Ingredients

Chicken Breasts

For this recipe, you’ll need about 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts. This lean protein is perfect for absorbing flavors and provides a satisfying base for our dish. Ensure you cut them into even pieces to ensure consistent cooking. Marinating them briefly can enhance their flavor even further.

Broccoli Florets

You will require approximately 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets for this recipe. Rich in vitamins C and K, broccoli adds not only nutritional value but also a lovely crunch to your creamy pasta. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easier eating.

Penne Pasta

Using 12 ounces of penne pasta creates a hearty component for your dish. This tubular pasta holds onto sauces beautifully thanks to its ridges, making every bite flavorful. Cook it until it’s al dente so it retains some firmness when mixed with the sauce.

Heavy Cream

You will need 1 cup of heavy cream to create that luscious Alfredo sauce. This ingredient provides richness and thickness while allowing other flavors to shine through. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half but expect a slightly different texture.

Parmesan Cheese

Grate about 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to add depth and umami flavor to your sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged options and will contribute to that smooth texture we desire in our creamy sauce.

Garlic

You’ll need around 3 cloves of minced garlic to infuse flavor into both the chicken and the sauce. Garlic adds aromatic qualities that elevate dishes significantly; it’s best sautéed until fragrant before adding other ingredients.

Olive Oil

Use about 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil for sautéing your chicken and garlic. This oil not only helps prevent sticking but also imparts a subtle flavor that complements our dish well.

Italian Seasoning

A teaspoon of Italian seasoning blends various herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme together perfectly—ideal for enhancing the flavors in your chicken and sauce without overpowering them.

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How to Prepare Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients on a clean workspace. Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and set aside to drain thoroughly. Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces if they are not already prepped; this allows for even cooking throughout the process.

In addition to prepping these core components, finely mince three garlic cloves—you want them ready to release their wonderful aroma at just the right moment during cooking! Lastly, measure out heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese so they are within reach while cooking; this makes things easier when you’re focused on timing.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add two tablespoons of olive oil once hot enough (you can test by flicking water droplets onto it). Add your diced chicken pieces while ensuring they are evenly spread out in one layer—this promotes browning rather than steaming them.

Season lightly with salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning as they cook undisturbed for about six minutes until golden brown on one side before flipping them over using tongs or a spatula. After another five minutes or so (or until fully cooked), remove from heat temporarily while preparing other components like broccoli.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic & Add Broccoli

Using the same skillet where you cooked your chicken helps capture all those delicious browned bits left behind—flavorful treasures! Add minced garlic immediately followed by rinsed broccoli florets once fragrant (approximately one minute later).

Stir everything around continuously so nothing burns; after two more minutes pass by—even brighter green color indicates readiness—add back cooked chicken from earlier along with any accumulated juices! This ensures all components meld beautifully together before moving on.

Step 4: Create The Sauce

Pour heavy cream directly into your pan filled with chicken-broccoli goodness; gently stir everything together while bringing it up towards simmer level (not boiling). Allow it simmer softly until slightly thickened (about three-four minutes), then gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted seamlessly throughout mixture!

Taste-test now might be necessary; adjust seasonings according preference—extra salt/pepper might be required depending on personal palate choices too! If desired consistency appears too thick? Simply add splash more heavy cream slowly while stirring until perfect texture achieved!

Step 5: Combine Pasta

While preparing this savory sauce blend earlier discussed steps should’ve had someone boiling salted water separately before added penne pasta accordingly! Once cooked al dente (about eight minutes), drain well then combine directly into skillet containing luxurious creamy concoction!

Gently fold everything together ensuring each piece covered adequately while letting warm through completely (another minute or two) before serving hot right away garnished optionally fresh herbs if available such basil leaves/chopped parsley!

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne piping hot straight from skillet onto individual plates or bowls! Consider garnishing each serving generously using fresh chopped parsley/basil leaves plus additional sprinkle parmesan cheese atop for extra flair!

Pair this delightful meal alongside crisp green salad dressed simply vinaigrette—it balances richness nicely while providing refreshing contrast every bite taken! A glass chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio complements flavors beautifully too; feel free enjoy favorite beverage choice alongside!

Storing Leftovers

If there happen be any leftovers remaining post-meal don’t fret—they store beautifully! Transfer cooled portions into airtight containers after allowing them cool down first ideally room temperature prior refrigerating up four days max without losing quality/flavor significantly over time span noted earlier here!

Reheating can take place either microwave-safe container perfect quick fix option or stovetop method heating gently low flame stirring often ensuring even warming throughout avoiding drying out moisture content lost initially upon storing originally! Enjoy every last spoonful guilt-free knowing still nutritious wholesome goodness present even next day onward—what’s not love about simple clean-up meal preparation cycle continuing joyfully?

With these tips at hand now ready tackle preparing scrumptious recipe everyone will rave about long after first bites taken! Enjoy experience making culinary masterpiece together today!

Mistakes to avoid

When preparing Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can compromise the dish’s flavor and texture. One of the most significant mistakes is overcooking the chicken. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough, ruining the whole experience. To ensure juicy chicken, cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and remove it from heat promptly.

Another mistake is using low-quality pasta. Pasta quality greatly affects the overall dish. Opt for high-quality penne that holds sauce well. Cook it al dente for the best texture, as this will prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the creamy alfredo sauce.

Failing to season properly is another frequent error. Salt enhances flavors, so be generous but not overwhelming. Taste your broccoli and alfredo sauce during cooking; adjust seasoning as needed to achieve a balanced flavor profile.

Using pre-made sauces can also detract from the dish’s authenticity. Homemade alfredo sauce is simple to make and far superior in taste. Take a few extra minutes to prepare your own sauce using butter, heavy cream, garlic, and parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.

Lastly, neglecting fresh ingredients can diminish the overall quality of your meal. Fresh broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also brings essential nutrients and crunchiness that frozen alternatives lack. Always choose fresh produce when making Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne.

Tips and tricks

To elevate your Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne, follow these tips for a perfect dish every time. First, marinate your chicken before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, Italian herbs, and lemon juice infuses flavor into the chicken while keeping it moist during cooking.

Second, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra punch of taste. These ingredients complement the creamy sauce beautifully and add depth to each bite. Just chop them finely and mix them into your pasta just before serving.

Another helpful tip is to use a non-stick skillet for cooking your chicken and creating the alfredo sauce. This makes clean-up easier and helps ensure even cooking without sticking or burning.

Make sure to reserve some pasta water after boiling the penne; this starchy liquid can help thicken your sauce if it turns out too thin. Add a little at a time until you achieve the desired consistency.

Lastly, always finish off your dish with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving. This not only enhances presentation but adds freshness and flavor that rounds off the dish perfectly.

Suggestions for Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne

When crafting your Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne, consider these suggestions to enhance both flavor and presentation. First, balance richness with acidity by adding a splash of lemon juice or white wine to your alfredo sauce just before serving. This brightens flavors and cuts through creaminess effectively.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables adds variety and nutrition to your meal. Besides broccoli, consider adding asparagus or spinach; both pair well with alfredo sauce and provide additional colors that make your plate visually appealing.

For those who prefer a lighter version of this recipe, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream in the alfredo sauce without sacrificing too much richness. Alternatively, you could use cauliflower puree as a base for a healthier twist on classic alfredo.

If you’re looking to make this meal ahead of time for meal prep or entertaining guests, you can partially prepare components separately—cook the chicken in advance but reheat it gently before mixing everything together at mealtime.

Lastly, serve this comforting dish in individual bowls rather than one large platter for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties or gatherings. Garnish each bowl with additional herbs or cheese for that restaurant-style touch.

FAQs

What is Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne?

Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne is a delightful fusion of tender chicken breast cooked in Italian spices served over penne pasta coated in rich broccoli alfredo sauce. The dish combines protein from chicken with fiber-rich broccoli while delivering comfort food satisfaction through creamy pasta goodness.

How do I store leftovers of Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne?

To store leftovers effectively, place them in an airtight container within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Refrigerate them promptly; they should last three to four days in the fridge without loss of quality or safety if stored correctly.

Can I make Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe by using gluten-free penne pasta made from rice or corn flour instead of traditional wheat-based options. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to keep within dietary restrictions while enjoying this delicious dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

If you prefer lighter alternatives to heavy cream in Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne, consider using half-and-half or whole milk mixed with cornstarch as thickeners instead of heavy cream while still achieving a creamy texture without excessive calories.

How spicy is Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne?

The spiciness level largely depends on how you season your chicken before cooking it; traditional recipes focus more on savory herbs rather than heat-inducing spices such as chili flakes unless added intentionally by chefs making customized versions at home!

Is it possible to freeze Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne?

Freezing isn’t recommended due mainly because dairy-based sauces don’t always thaw well—resulting often in separation upon reheating—which compromises taste significantly! Instead consume within several days after preparing instead!

Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne Recipe

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• Author: Liza Hamilton
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This creamy Tuscan Chicken Alfredo Penne combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a rich alfredo sauce, served over perfectly cooked penne pasta. A hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and full of Italian-inspired goodness!

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet, let rest, and slice thinly.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, letting the sauce thicken.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until melted and smooth. Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken. Toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
5. Serve:
   • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even grilled vegetables for a variation.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 36g

In summary, Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Penne offers a deliciously comforting meal that’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for gatherings. To ensure success when preparing this dish, avoid common mistakes such as overcooking chicken or neglecting fresh ingredients while incorporating tips like marinating before cooking or balancing rich flavors through acidity additions like lemon juice.

Moreover—consider suggestions like adding seasonal vegetables or opting for lighter substitutes if you desire healthier options without sacrificing taste! By following these guidelines closely along every step—from preparation down till plating—you’re guaranteed an incredible dining experience filled full-flavored goodness everyone will love! Enjoy crafting this delightful dish today!