Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Penne

Get ready to create a delicious pasta dish that combines tender chicken, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly cooked penne in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

• Main Ingredients:
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1½ pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Additions:
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes for heat
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
• Pro Tips:
  • Look for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for better flavor
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream
  • Contains dairy and gluten – see substitutions below for alternatives

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Pro tip: Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Watch carefully as garlic can burn quickly.
4. Add chicken broth and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add incredible flavor to your sauce.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return chicken to the pan.
7. Add cooked penne to the sauce and toss to combine. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Key Details:

🕒 Total Time: 30 mins (Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins)
🍽️ Servings: 6 people
🔥 Calories: ~520 per serving
⚙️ Equipment: Large pot, colander, large skillet, measuring cups and spoons

Pro Tips & Variations:

• Toast pine nuts and sprinkle on top for added crunch
• Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients
• Make it gluten-free by using chickpea or brown rice pasta
• For dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese

Storage Instructions:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency. Not recommended for freezing as cream-based sauces can separate.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use dried herbs instead of Italian seasoning?
Yes, use a mixture of dried basil, oregano, and thyme.

Why is my sauce too thick/thin?
Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water or extra cream. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Best served fresh, but you can prep the components separately up to 24 hours in advance.