chicken penne pasta recipe

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The Best chicken penne pasta recipe

When my kids were little, I’d always look for a way to make pasta feel special without spending hours in the kitchen. Chicken penne is one of those dishes that feels like a little treat—rich, comforting, and easy to customize. I love how it balances tender chicken with the perfect bite of penne, and the creamy sauce ties it all together without being heavy. It’s not just a meal; it’s something that feels like a little celebration, whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. My family always seems to find something they love about it—whether it’s the way the pasta soaks up the sauce or how the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. For me, it’s a go-to because it’s simple enough to make without stress, but still feels indulgent enough to make for a real occasion. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, so it’s a great way to keep things balanced without feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home, and that’s what matters most.
Easy Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Tomato Sauce

Easy Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Tomato Sauce

4.9 from 1810 votes

A simple, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

  1. 1
    Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and cook the chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Season with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken, slice into strips, and set aside.
  2. 2
    While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
  3. 3
    In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. 4
    Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss gently with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the mixture. Stir in sliced chicken and parsley. Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot with lid
  • Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 9❤️Cholesterol: 75🧂Sodium: 750🌾Total Carbs: 50🥦Dietary Fiber: 4🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 30

📝Notes

Tips: For extra richness, stir in a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese at the end. If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the heavy cream to half-and-half or omit it entirely.

Watch Video Of How Easy Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Tomato Sauce Works

This chicken penne pasta is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion because it’s simple enough to make ahead and reheat, yet packed with flavor that feels special. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a little effort but comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family without overcomplicating things. Plus, the tender chicken and creamy sauce hide any mess, so you can focus on enjoying the meal instead.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Tomato Sauce

How do I adjust the sauce for a creamier texture?

Yes, you can thicken the sauce further by simmering it for another 2–3 minutes after combining it with the cooked pasta. If you prefer an even creamier result, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.

Can I substitute penne pasta for another shape?

Penne works best for this recipe because its ridges hold the marinara sauce well. If you use a different pasta shape like fusilli or rotini, you may need to stir the sauce more frequently to prevent it from clumping.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Dried basil works in a pinch—use 1 tablespoon of dried basil for every 2 tablespoons of fresh. If you have only dried basil, skip the lemon zest and omit the extra olive oil, as it won’t add the same brightness.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then refrigerate until ready to assemble. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. For best texture, serve the pasta fresh from the pan.

Why did my chicken taste like it was dry?

Overcooking the chicken can cause it to dry out. To avoid this, cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. If the chicken is still dry, lightly broil it for 1–2 minutes after slicing to revive moisture.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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