If you’re in need of a swift and satisfying dinner option, look no further than chicken penne pasta. Whipping up this dish is a breeze, and it yields a delightful, creamy, and full-flavored outcome. Picture this: succulent chicken, perfectly seared to golden perfection, mingling with a luscious white sauce and tender penne pasta—all in under 30 minutes. It’s a straightforward yet classic Italian dinner idea, beloved by families, and a bonus is that any leftovers make for an excellent next-day lunch. Embrace the simplicity and flavor of this creamy Italian delight!
Table of Contents
WHY WILL YOU ENJOY CHICKEN PENNE PASTA?
• Quick and Convenient: Pasta dinners are renowned for their speed and simplicity, making them an excellent choice for hectic weeknights. If you’re searching for additional pasta choices to Savor during your hectic weeknights, why not experiment with Pasta Bake with Sausage, Creamy Salmon Pasta, or Mascarpone Pesto Pasta? These meals are bound to satisfy your appetite and keep you content.
• Balanced Flavors: This chicken penne pasta strikes the ideal harmony of Flavors. With the vibrant notes of fresh garlic and cheese, the comforting presence of starchy pasta and Savory chicken, and the luxurious base crafted from heavy cream and chicken broth, this dish is a symphony of delightful Flavors.
• Filling and Gratifying: Loaded with carbs and protein, this pasta dish provides the ideal replenishment after a long day, whether you’ve been using your brain, your body, or both. Elevate your dinner experience by indulging in this satisfying chicken penne pasta.
• Perfect for Tomorrow’s Lunch: When preparing creamy chicken pasta, it’s wise to cook extra for the next day. It reheats beautifully and retains its satisfying appeal, delivering an equally delightful experience as the initial serving.
Recipe Video:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340g) penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound (450g) chopped boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
A big saucepan of salted water should be brought to a boil.
Penne pasta should be cooked according to package recommendations until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken:
In a big pan over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
Before taking the chicken from the pan, set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
After taking the chicken from the skillet, set it aside. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
Add the diced red and yellow bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
Allow the sauce to heat up for 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Add the Chicken and Cheese:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it into the creamy sauce.
Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce and creates a smooth, velvety texture.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, gently tossing until it’s thoroughly coated with the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is heated through and well-mixed, remove the skillet from heat.
You can sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor if desired.
- Enjoy:
Serve your homemade creamy Chicken Penne Pasta immediately, either as a standalone dish or with a side salad and garlic bread.
Chef’s Tips:
- For added spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Customize your vegetable selection by adding mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- If the sauce appears too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of chicken broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
Nutrition Information:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
| Calories | 487 |
| Total Fat | 25g |
| – Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 138mg |
| Sodium | 572mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| – Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 31g |
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Penne Pasta!
Health Benefits, Storage, and Reheating Guide for Chicken Penne Pasta
Health Benefits of Chicken Penne Pasta 🍝
- Quick and Convenient: Perfect for hectic weeknights, this dish is a speedy and simple option, providing a delicious meal without the stress.
- Balanced Flavors: The vibrant notes of fresh garlic and cheese, combined with the comforting presence of starchy pasta and savory chicken, create a symphony of delightful flavors.
- Filling and Gratifying: Loaded with carbs and protein, this pasta dish offers ideal replenishment after a long day, providing satisfaction whether you’ve been using your brain, body, or both.
- Perfect for Tomorrow’s Lunch: Cook extra for the next day; it reheats beautifully, delivering an equally delightful experience as the initial serving.
Storage Instructions 🧊
- Cooling Down: Allow any remaining chicken penne pasta to cool down in the pan or a container with the lid off.
- Airtight Container: Once at room temperature, transfer it into an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Refrigeration Duration: Store in the fridge for 3-4 days. Cooling before sealing prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
Reheating Options for Pasta Perfection 🍲
Option 1: Stovetop Warming
- Place a pan on the stove and set it to medium-low heat.
- Stir the pasta until thoroughly heated.
- If the sauce thickened, add a splash of water to restore creaminess.
Option 2: Microwave Magic
- Use a microwave-safe dish.
- Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between sessions.
- Continue until your pasta reaches the desired warmth.
Chef’s Tip: Choose your reheating method wisely for a delightful experience. Now, savor every moment of your delicious creation! 🍝
How to Serve Chicken Penne Pasta 🍽️
Pair with Bread: Consider adding bread to savor any remaining sauce.
Delightful Side Dishes:
- Garlic Breadsticks
- Garden Salad
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Greek Salad
- Cheesy Garlic Dinner Rolls
- Tomato Cucumber Avocado Salad