This Chicken Penne Pasta is a yummy dish packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and tasty sauce all mixed with pasta. It’s perfect for a family dinner or even a quick lunch!
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I just boil the pasta, cook the chicken, toss in some veggies, and mix it all together. In no time, I have a plate of comfort food ready to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta is perfect for holding onto the sauce. If you run out, any other pasta shape like rigatoni or farfalle works too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Chicken: I recommend using boneless chicken breasts for tenderness. If you want to mix it up, thighs are juicier or you can use rotisserie chicken for less prep time!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy, but you could substitute half-and-half or a lower-fat milk with a thickener like flour for a lighter version. Just keep in mind it won’t be as creamy!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor, but you can also use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Just adjust the amount as needed!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken just right can be tricky! Here’s how to make sure it’s cooked evenly:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces; this helps them cook at the same rate.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken; this gives it a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking!
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safely cooked through.
For extra flavor, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before adding it back to the sauce!
How to Make Chicken Penne Pasta with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cut into thin slices or bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup bacon bits or chopped cooked bacon (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This recipe should take about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but delicious enough for special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. If you’re using bacon bits, toss them in and sauté for an additional minute. Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine and scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Combine Everything:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce thicken slightly, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Taste the sauce and season it with extra salt and pepper as needed. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it to coat with the creamy sauce.
5. Final Touch:
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and gently stir everything together until the pasta is well combined with the sauce and heated through. Remove from heat.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the creamy Chicken Penne Pasta onto plates and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
This dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends, packed with flavor and comfort in every bite!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Penne Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne will add more fiber and a nutty flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free penne made from rice or quinoa. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch for a lower-fat option. Using less cheese or a lighter cheese like mozzarella can also help cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.
What Vegetables Can I Add to This Dish?
Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes make great additions. You can sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream, or fold them in with the pasta for a colorful and nutritious boost.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet or microwave to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out.
