Description
A delightful dish combining tenderness, creaminess, and the irresistible flavors of Italian cuisine into one convenient pot, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/3 cup (80g) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup (10g) fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they are golden but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Then add the diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the uncooked pasta and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is almost al dente.
- Return the partially cooked chicken to the pot, nestling it into the pasta. Continue simmering uncovered for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest, and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the pasta.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving some for garnishing. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and the reserved fresh basil.
Notes
For best results, cut chicken pieces uniformly and use fresh herbs. Adjust spice level to taste and consider adding veggies for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian