Chicken Penne Pasta is a classic pasta with penne pasta, juicy chicken, and a creamy tomato sauce.
This dish is a one-pot dinner, because everything is cooked in one skillet or even a pot, wich is making it a convenient, simple and delicious option for dinner.
The chicken, delicious creamy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked al dente penne pasta makes this meal a hit with everyone!
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this Chicken Penne Pasta recipe because it’s super simple, quick and perfect for busy days. With just few ingredients and only one pot, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
The creamy tomato sauce is tying everything together perfectly. It’s definitely a family favorite recipe. And it’s also great for meal prep, because the leftovers are just as tasty! Sometimes I add in fresh veggies, different cheeses, or use whole wheat pasta for a healthy twist. It’s my go to recipe that never gets old!
Key Ingredients
- Penne pasta: The perfect shape for holding onto the creamy tomato sauce. You can also use whole wheat pasta or chickpea pasta for a healthier twist.
- Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own chicken breasts or thighs. The chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
- Tomato paste: Adds a subtle tang and enhances the creamy texture of the sauce, creating a balanced flavor profile.
- Heavy cream: Provides richness to the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy. You can substitute with half-and-half or a lighter cream option if desired.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding a gooey, cheesy finish. You can also mix in some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
How to Serve?
Serve Chicken Penne Pasta hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
For a more Italian touch, you cna top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. This is perfect for both family dinners and gatherings with friends.
Expert Tips
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, high quality olive oil, and fresh cream make a big difference in the flavor of the pasta. Choose the best ingredients that you can find.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the penne al dente, because it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
Adjusting the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick add some of the pasta cooking water or chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it a bit longer to thicken.
Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms, to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor.
Adding Protein: While chicken is a great option, you can also use shrimp or sausage for a different protein twist.
Serving Size: This recipe serves four, but you can easily double it for larger gatherings or meal prep.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy version of this dish.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Cheese Swap: Try using a combination of cheeses like Parmesan, Asiago, or Fontina for a different flavor profile.
- Pasta Alternative: Swap the penne for rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle to mix things up.
How to Store?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. And if You like Italian inspired dishes I also recommend trying out this Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta.
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Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Penne Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and gooey cheese—all made in one pot!
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 cup tomato paste or sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to blend with the garlic and oil.
- Make it Creamy: Add the heavy cream, stirring until fully incorporated and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Mix in Chicken: Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Cook until the chicken is warmed through.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked penne pasta and mozzarella cheese to the pot, tossing everything together until the pasta is coated and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce along with the cream.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
This dish is also great with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main dish
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Protein: 28g
Nutrition information
This website gives estimated nutritional information, which might change depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use whole wheat or chickpea pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, and substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
