Creamy Garlic Chicken Penn

Ingredients

– 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups penne pasta
– 1.5 cups broccoli florets
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp dried oregano

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta:

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Make sure to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the chicken:

Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and a pinch of basil and oregano.

3. Sauté the chicken:

In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Sauté the garlic and broccoli:

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Make the creamy sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.

6. Combine everything:

Add the cooked penne pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the creamy sauce. Toss until well coated, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.

7. Garnish and serve:

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

– Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
– Add some lemon juice or zest for extra brightness.
– Substitute broccoli with asparagus or bell peppers.
– Add some cooked bacon or pancetta for added smokiness.
– Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.