chicken penne recipe
The Best chicken penne recipe
My kids love it too, especially when we make it for game nights or lazy Sundays. The pasta cooks up in no time, and the sauce is so forgiving that even picky eaters usually end up finishing it. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for a family dinner because it’s hearty enough to hold up through seconds, but not so much that it feels like a chore to eat. And honestly? It’s one of those dishes that makes me feel like I’m doing something good for them—protein-rich, fiber from the whole-wheat pasta if you use it, and just enough healthy fats from the olive oil and garlic to keep things satisfying. It’s not fancy, but it’s always a hit, and that’s what matters most.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
A comforting one-pan dish with tender chicken, al dente penne, and a rich garlic tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 400°F. Season chicken breasts with paprika and garlic powder, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes), then transfer to a baking sheet. -
2
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining. -
3
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic in marinara sauce for 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth. Return chicken to the skillet. -
4
Add cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Serve immediately.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot with lid
- Mixing bowl
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
How do I adjust the seasoning if I don’t have garlic powder?
You can replace garlic powder with minced garlic or a garlic-infused oil (about 1 tablespoon) in the marinade. If you skip it entirely, add a pinch of onion powder or smoked paprika for depth—just let the chicken simmer longer to let flavors meld.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but adjust the cooking method: marinate the chicken overnight, then bake or grill it fresh the next day. If you bake it ahead, add 5–10 extra minutes to the bake time to ensure it’s fully cooked. Store marinade separately to avoid cross-contamination.
What if my penne isn’t al dente?
Cook the penne 1–2 minutes longer than package instructions suggest, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. If it’s still underdone, toss it with a splash of pasta water and a pinch of salt to soften further.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for 1 lb (450g) firm tofu, marinate in the same sauce, then pan-sear until golden. For extra richness, add ½ cup sautéed mushrooms or walnuts to the pasta. Skip the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead.
Why does the sauce taste bland?
Start with a fresh lemon wedge in the marinade—acid brightens flavors. If the sauce lacks body, reduce it by simmering for 2–3 minutes after adding the penne. For umami, add ½ teaspoon soy sauce or a splash of white miso paste to the final mix.
