creamy chicken and penne pasta recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
creamy chicken and penne pasta recipe
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The Best creamy chicken and penne pasta recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite creamy chicken and penne pasta recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to serve to your family and friends, this recipe is sure to please. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal preparation time. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they can’t get enough of the creamy sauce that coats the penne pasta.

I’ve experimented with various types of pasta, but penne is my top choice – it holds onto the sauce perfectly and adds a nice texture to the dish. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but you can also use thighs or a combination of both if you prefer.

The key to making this dish truly special is using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to cook the pasta al dente. This may seem like a minor detail, but trust me when I say it makes all the difference in the world.

When cooked correctly, the pasta will still have a bit of bite to it, which pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Creamy Chicken and Penne Pasta

Creamy Chicken and Penne Pasta

4.7 from 882 votes

A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken pieces and penne in a creamy Parmesan sauce. This one-pan meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Creamy Sauce

2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
4While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
5Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6Add the chicken in a single layer and cook without stirring for 4 to 5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
7Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
8Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet.
9Once melted, add the minced garlic and saute for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
10Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
11Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
12Stir in the dried thyme and red pepper flakes if using.
13The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
14Add the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
15Toss everything together gently with a wooden spoon until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
16If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
17Cook for 1 to 2 minutes over low heat until everything is heated through.
18Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
19Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use low-sodium chicken broth. You can also add a cup of steamed broccoli or sauteed mushrooms for extra vegetables.

This creamy chicken and penne pasta recipe is a staple in our household for a reason – it’s deliciously easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – simply refrigerate or freeze any leftovers until you’re ready to reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

When reheating, be sure to add a bit more cream or milk if needed to maintain that creamy texture we all know and love.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken and Penne Pasta

1. What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using penne pasta for this recipe, as it holds onto the sauce perfectly and adds a nice texture to the dish.

2. Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. Some popular options include Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, make sure to stir it occasionally while it’s cooking on the stovetop. You can also add a bit more chicken broth or milk if needed.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance by cooking the pasta and chicken ahead of time. Simply store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and serve.

5. What are some good ways to customize this recipe?

One way to customize this recipe is by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

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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