1-First Step: Cook the pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 10 ounces of penne pasta and cook it until just al dente, usually about 10 to 11 minutes, depending on the brand. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Save about 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

2-Second Step: Season and brown the chicken While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken pieces dry. Season them with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then, until the pieces are golden on the outside and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

3-Third Step: Start the sauce base Lower the heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Stir in 2 teaspoons minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons flour and whisk it into the butter to form a smooth paste. Cook that mixture for about 1 minute so the raw flour taste disappears.

4-Fourth Step: Build the creamy sauce Slowly pour in 2 cups chicken broth while whisking so the sauce stays smooth. Add 1 cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until it starts to thicken. If it looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or a little more broth.

5-Fifth Step: Add cheese and tomatoes Stir in 1 cup grated parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Then add 1 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes. Keep the heat low so the cheese melts without breaking the sauce. The tomatoes should soften and blend into the creamy base while still giving little bursts of flavor.

6-Sixth Step: Combine everything Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained penne pasta and toss gently until everything is coated. Let it cook together for 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors blend. Taste and adjust with a little more salt or pepper if needed.

7-Final Step: Finish and serve Top the pasta with fresh basil for garnish and serve right away while the sauce is creamy and hot. If you like, add more parmesan on top. For a cozy side dish, pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread. If you want another fun family-friendly recipe idea, try the playful unicorn popcorn recipe for dessert or movie night.