Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  5. Stir in the penne pasta. Return the cooked chicken to the pot.
  6. Cover and simmer until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally, about 12-15 minutes. Adjust the liquid level if necessary.
  7. Stir in grated Parmesan, crushed red pepper (if using), and season to taste.
  8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and cover until melted, about 3-5 minutes.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.