Ingredients
For the Chicken & Seasoning:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 14 oz penne pasta
- Water for boiling
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp salted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- ¼ cup chicken stock
- ⅔ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 3 cups baby spinach leaves
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Season & Sear the Chicken:
- Toss cubed chicken with salt, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 8 minutes, flipping until golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
-
Sauté Aromatics:
- Melt butter in the same skillet.
- Add red onions and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Deglaze & Build the Sauce:
- Pour in white wine and chicken stock, scraping the pan to release browned bits.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in heavy cream.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
-
Add Spinach & Combine Everything:
- Stir in baby spinach until wilted.
- Return the chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
-
Serve & Garnish:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes (if desired).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it Spicy: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
- More Veggies: Try mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers.
- Swap the Protein: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
