Flavour Quest Recipes

One‑Pot Tuscan Chicken Penne (40-Minute Creamy Dinner)

One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Penne is a creamy, comforting dinner inspired by classic Tuscan flavors. Tender chicken and penne pasta are simmered together in a rich cream sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs, all in a single pan. Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s a satisfying weeknight meal that delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 45

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

12 oz Penne pasta
1 lb Chicken breast skinless + boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp Olive oil
2 tbsp Butter
3 Cloves garlic
½ cup Sun-dried tomatoes drained and chopped
2 ½ cup Chicken broth
½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp Black pepper
¼ tsp Red pepper flakes optional
2 cup Fresh spinach
Fresh basil or parsley chopped (optional garnish)

Method

Heat olive oil and butter in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden.
Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Stir in uncooked penne and pour in chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add spinach and stir until wilted and the sauce is creamy.
Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

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🔄 Variations

Add spinach or kale during the final minutes for extra greens

Swap chicken breast for chicken thighs for a richer texture

Use rigatoni or rotini instead of penne

Stir in mushrooms for added depth

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette

Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables

Finish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil

Enjoy on its own as a complete one-pot meal

❄️ Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or broth
Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate

💡 Tips

Cut chicken into even pieces so it cooks evenly
Simmer gently to keep the sauce smooth and creamy
Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking
Add cheese off heat to avoid a grainy sauce

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers reheat well with added liquid.

Q: Can I use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil?
A: Yes. Drain them well before adding to control richness.

Q: Is this dish very heavy?
A: It’s creamy and satisfying but balanced with herbs and tomatoes.

Q: Can I make this lighter?
A: Use half-and-half instead of cream and reduce the cheese slightly.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this recipe, you’ll love my free Comfort Dinner Guide—packed with easy, satisfying weeknight meals.