easy chicken penne pasta recipe
The Best easy chicken penne pasta recipe
Oh, this Easy Chicken Penne Pasta recipe is one of those simple dishes that feels like a hug for my family—especially on busy weeknights when I want something hearty but not too complicated. I love it because it’s got that perfect balance of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta that just melts in your mouth. It’s not fancy, but it’s always a hit with my kids, who’ll beg for seconds if I let them help with the sauce. My husband even says it’s his go-to comfort food when he’s tired after work, so it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
This recipe is also fantastic for special occasions because it’s easy to double up and serve with a side salad or garlic bread, but it also works perfectly for everyday dinners—no one has to feel like they’re eating out of a box. Plus, it’s got some real health perks too. The penne pasta is a whole grain option, which means more fiber and nutrients than regular white pasta. The chicken is lean and easy to cook, and the tomatoes add natural sweetness without needing a bunch of heavy cream. It’s not just delicious; it’s a way to get more vegetables and protein in without making anyone feel like they’re sacrificing flavor. My kids don’t even realize they’re eating healthy when they’re licking their plates clean.
Easy Chicken Penne Pasta
A quick and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender chicken, creamy penne pasta, and a savory tomato sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place on a baking sheet.
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2 Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Remove from oven and let rest.
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3 While chicken bakes, heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft (~3 mins). Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
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4 Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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5 In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in half the shredded mozzarella. Transfer to a large skillet and heat through.
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6 Add the tomato sauce to the skillet with pasta mixture. Stir in remaining mozzarella until melted and creamy. Serve hot.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Pasta pot
- Slotted spoon
- Wooden spoon
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Chicken Penne Pasta Works
This easy chicken penne pasta is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple enough to whip up in under 30 minutes while still feeling like a special meal. It’s perfect for family gatherings because it’s hearty enough to hold everyone’s attention but doesn’t require fancy techniques—just good seasoning and a little care. Plus, the creamy sauce and tender chicken make it feel indulgent without being overwhelming, so it’s always a hit whether you’re serving it at dinner or a casual get-together.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Penne Pasta
What is the easiest way to make Chicken Penne Pasta without any complicated steps?
The easiest way is to use a simple sauce made from canned chicken broth, marinara sauce, and a little bit of cream cheese or heavy cream. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then mix it with the chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, and your sauce. You can also add pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick protein boost.
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Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe instead of fresh chicken?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is one of the easiest ways to make this dish. Simply shred the chicken, remove any skin or bones, and mix it into the pasta with the sauce. This saves time and effort compared to cooking fresh chicken.
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What are some simple substitutions I can make for the ingredients in this easy Chicken Penne Pasta?
Here are some easy substitutions: – Pasta: Swap penne for any short pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or macaroni. – Chicken: Use ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile. – Sauce: Replace marinara with a simple tomato sauce or even a light Alfredo sauce. – Broth: Substitute with water or vegetable broth for a lighter option. – Cheese: Add grated Parmesan, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
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How can I make this Chicken Penne Pasta extra creamy without using heavy cream?
To make it extra creamy without heavy cream, try these tricks: – Cream Cheese: Mix in a spoonful of full-fat cream cheese with the sauce for a rich, velvety texture. – Milk or Half-and-Half: Stir in a splash of milk or half-and-half to lighten the sauce slightly while adding creaminess. – Butter: Sauté a little butter into the sauce for a buttery flavor. – Greek Yogurt: Use plain Greek yogurt mixed into the sauce for a tangy, creamy effect. – Creamy Broth: Simmer broth with a bit of butter and garlic for a naturally creamy base.
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How long does it usually take to prepare and cook this Chicken Penne Pasta recipe?
This recipe can be prepared in about 20-25 minutes if you use pre-cooked chicken. Here’s a quick breakdown: – Cooking pasta: 8-10 minutes (depending on package instructions). – Sautéing veggies (optional): 5 minutes. – Mixing sauce and chicken: 5-10 minutes. If you’re using fresh chicken, add an extra 10-15 minutes for cooking and shredding. The dish reheats well, so you can also make it ahead and warm it up later.
