Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta is a comforting, restaurant-style meal that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Tender chicken pieces are tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta and coated in a rich, velvety cream sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and savory ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for two, this creamy pasta is a one-pan wonder that’s always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Creamy & Flavorful – Loaded with Parmesan and garlic cream sauce.
• Family Favorite – Loved by adults and kids alike.
• Perfect for Leftovers – Reheats beautifully.
• Customizable – Add veggies or spice to make it your own.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 10 oz (280 g) penne pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
• ¾ cup (75 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Add Cheese & Seasoning:
   Stir in Parmesan cheese, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Let it simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Combine:
   Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
   Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot!

How to Serve

• Plating Tips: Serve in shallow bowls, topped with Parmesan and herbs.
• Side Pairings: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Leftover Uses: Great for lunch the next day or baked with cheese for a casserole.
• Beverage Pairing: Pair with white wine or sparkling lemonade.

Additional Tips

• Don’t overcook the chicken tender pieces keep it juicy.
• Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.
• For extra depth, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
• Stir in spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and color.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add Cajun seasoning or extra chili flakes.
• Veggie Boost: Add broccoli, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella for extra creaminess.
• Light Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm on stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Pasta pot
• Wooden spoon

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other pasta types?
Yes, fettuccine, rigatoni, or bow-tie pasta all work well.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, store the sauce and pasta separately for best results.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely it’s a great shortcut for busy nights.

Can I make it lighter?
Use milk instead of cream and skip extra cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta is a go-to comfort meal rich, smooth, and satisfying with every bite. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions. Once you try it, this creamy, garlicky pasta will become a staple in your home!

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