Chicken Penne Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb penne pasta

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup baby spinach leaves

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta:

    • Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  1. Season and Cook Chicken:

    • Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.

    • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  1. Prepare the Sauce:

    • In the same skillet, add minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

    • Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and cherry tomatoes. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the flavors to meld.

    • Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

  1. Combine Chicken and Pasta:

    • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add baby spinach leaves. Stir until the spinach wilts and the chicken is coated in the sauce.

  1. Add Pasta:

    • Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

  1. Garnish and Serve:

    • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

    • Serve hot, with additional Parmesan on the side.