Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
Pasta
- 10 ounces penne pasta
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 10 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut 1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper evenly.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in 3 tablespoons flour to form a paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add Liquids and Cheese: Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth, followed by 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Flavor the Sauce: Stir in 1 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, then add the cooked penne pasta. Stir well to coat both the chicken and pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil leaves and sprinkle additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil add extra richness; if using dry-packed, rehydrate in warm water before using.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce with extra chicken broth or cream if needed.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American