Chicken Penne Pasta is the kind of dish that dances in your mouth, twirls around your taste buds, and leaves a lingering aroma that makes you wonder if you just invited a five-star chef into your kitchen. Imagine a creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all harmonizing like a well-rehearsed choir of flavors. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night or the perfect centerpiece for a dinner party where everyone suddenly becomes a food critic—without the snobbery.
This delightful dish has been my go-to for family gatherings, romantic dinners, and those days when life just calls for some serious comfort food. Picture this: I once attempted to impress my in-laws with my culinary skills, only to find myself face-to-face with a kitchen disaster. But when I served up Chicken Penne Pasta, their skeptical expressions melted into smiles, and I knew I had won them over. It’s an experience worth sharing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Penne Pasta is not only easy to whip up but also bursting with rich flavors that will make your taste buds sing
- The vibrant colors of the ingredients create an appealing dish that’s perfect for any occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit both picky eaters and adventurous palates alike!
Ingredients for Chicken Penne Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Penne Pasta: Choose whole-grain or gluten-free options if preferred; cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing the chicken and adding depth of flavor to the sauce.
Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives this dish its aromatic kick; use about 3-4 cloves for maximum flavor.
Heavy Cream: Provides that luscious creaminess; alternatively, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free substitute if desired.
For the Sauce:
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds richness; reserve some for sprinkling on top before serving.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano elevates the flavor profile; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Penne Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Penne
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add salt generously (like you’re seasoning with magic). Toss in your penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces (they love making new friends in there) and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through—about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once your chicken is cooked, toss in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen should now smell like an Italian bistro—delicious!
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in heavy cream while stirring gently—this is where magic happens! Add in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about five minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Now it’s time for our stars to unite! Add the drained penne pasta into your creamy chicken mixture. Toss everything together gently until combined so every piece gets coated in that luscious sauce.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your beautiful Chicken Penne Pasta onto plates or into bowls. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top if you’re feeling fancy! Drizzle with olive oil or fresh herbs as an optional finishing touch.
Now step back, admire your work, and get ready for applause—or at least some satisfied nods from everyone at the table! Enjoy every creamy bite of this fantastic Chicken Penne Pasta!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken penne pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked penne
- It’s versatile and can be adapted based on your taste preferences or what you have in your pantry
- Serve it up for a crowd or enjoy the leftovers all week long!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect chicken penne pasta, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While that sizzles away, cook your penne pasta in salted water. Once both elements are ready, toss them together with the sauce for a harmonious blend.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your chicken penne pasta! Swap out the chicken for shrimp or add seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses or herbs to create a personalized flavor explosion!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess as you warm it on the stove.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your water well when cooking pasta; it enhances flavor from the start
- Avoid overcooking the chicken – juicy is the way to go!
- Lastly, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving; flavors meld beautifully
The first time I made chicken penne pasta for my friends, they declared me a culinary genius (or maybe just hungry). The laughter shared over that meal made it unforgettable!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Chicken Penne Pasta?
To make Chicken Penne Pasta, you will need boneless chicken breasts, penne pasta, olive oil, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, and fresh basil. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. These ingredients come together to create a creamy and delicious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Make sure to season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Penne Pasta?
Preparing Chicken Penne Pasta typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes cooking the penne pasta, sautéing the chicken, and preparing the creamy sauce. Cooking the pasta usually takes around 12 minutes. The chicken should be cooked until golden brown, which may take another 10-15 minutes. The remaining time is used for combining everything into a cohesive dish. It’s a quick meal option perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I customize my Chicken Penne Pasta recipe?
Absolutely! One of the best things about Chicken Penne Pasta is its versatility. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Additionally, you can replace heavy cream with a lighter alternative such as Greek yogurt or low-fat milk if you’re looking for a healthier option. Spice it up with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor. Feel free to get creative based on your taste preferences.
Is Chicken Penne Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Chicken Penne Pasta is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can cook a large batch and store individual servings in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This dish retains its flavor well when reheated, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week. Just be sure to store the sauce separately if you prefer the pasta not to become too soggy over time. Enjoy a homemade meal conveniently during your busy days.
Conclusion for Chicken Penne Pasta:
In summary, Chicken Penne Pasta is a delicious and versatile dish that can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients like chicken, penne pasta, and a creamy sauce, it’s easy to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Whether you choose to add vegetables or adjust the flavors, this meal is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy making this delightful dish that combines convenience with great taste!
Chicken Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Penne Pasta is a creamy and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a luscious sauce. This delightful recipe is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, Chicken Penne Pasta transforms any meal into an extraordinary experience that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, then add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for about five minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine the cooked penne pasta with the sauce mixture, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 576
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 99mg
