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Delicious Spinach Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne recipe photo

Spinach Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne

This Spinach Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne is bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Creamy, savory, and perfect for a quick family dinner!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken breast diced
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully cooked and golden brown, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in chopped fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Return cooked chicken to skillet. Add drained penne pasta and toss to coat with sauce. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

  • This dish reheats well; add a splash of milk or cream when warming leftovers to loosen the sauce.
  • Frozen spinach can be used instead of fresh, especially in winter months.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based protein.