Ingredients
- 8 ounces dried Penne pasta (about 2 1/2 cups)
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 6 tenders)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup diced onion
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (see notes)
- Italian Parsley or Basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta to al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken breasts and season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side for breasts, or 3-5 minutes per side for tenders. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes, then slice into strips.
- Cook the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the half-and-half and bring to a simmer, but don’t let it boil. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and wilted spinach to the skillet. Toss everything until well combined.
- Serve: Season with more salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with Italian parsley or basil.
Notes
- For sun-dried tomatoes, you can use either jarred or dried tomatoes rehydrated in warm water.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the half-and-half with a combination of milk and a tablespoon of flour for thickening.
- To add more vegetables, feel free to toss in roasted red peppers or mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 708
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 43g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 29g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
