Ingredients
Scale
Gathering ingredients for this recipe feels like a trip down memory lane to my grandmother’s garden, where fresh herbs and ripe vegetables were always at the ready. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice lovers)
If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a different twist, or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier spin. These are the kinds of improvisations my mother would have loved, always encouraging creativity in the kitchen.
Instructions
Let’s bring this dish to life, step by step, just like the way I learned by watching my Nonna and mother in our family kitchen.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the pot, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step always reminds me of those aromatic afternoons in Nonna’s kitchen.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the penne pasta, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle with fresh basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. I can still hear my mother saying, “A little spice is always nice!”
- Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan and basil if you wish. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors that evoke a sense of home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International