chicken penne recipe

The Best chicken penne recipe

Chicken penne is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug for my family, especially on busy weeknights or when we need something hearty but still manageable. There’s something so comforting about the creamy, savory sauce clinging to the pasta, the tender chicken melting in just the right way, and the way it makes everyone’s eyes light up—even the kids who usually shy away from rich sauces. I love that it’s a dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying, whether we’re making it for a quick family dinner or a special occasion like a holiday or a weekend get-together. My kids, especially my little one who’s picky, usually ends up begging for seconds because it’s so good, and honestly, I don’t blame them. The pasta gives it a satisfying texture, the chicken adds protein without being too heavy, and the sauce is rich but balanced—no one feels like they’re eating something too indulgent, even if it’s not exactly light.

What really makes this recipe special is how versatile it is. It’s great for everyday meals when we’re short on time but still want something tasty, or it can be elevated for a bigger gathering. My husband and I love it because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a little treat without being too much work. And let’s be honest, there’s something about a bowl of penne with a creamy sauce that just makes everything feel a little more nourishing, even if it’s not the most “healthy” dish in the truest sense. The pasta gives you that fiber and carbs for energy, the chicken provides lean protein, and the vegetables—like the ones we often sneak in—add vitamins and nutrients without overpowering the flavor. It’s not a dish that’s going to make you feel guilty afterward, and that’s a win in my book. Plus, the way the sauce coats the pasta makes it feel like a little indulgence, and honestly, that’s all some people need to make dinner feel like a real meal. My kids have grown up eating it so often that they don’t even think twice about it now—it’s just something we do, and that’s what I love about it. It’s simple, it’s reliable, and it always brings people together.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

4.7 from 1029 votes

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken paired with creamy garlic penne in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a cozy meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time50 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking chicken. Season chicken with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Remove and set aside.
2. 2 In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. 3 Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. 4 In a separate pan, melt butter over low heat. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
5. 5 Return chicken to the skillet and pour the tomato sauce over it. Stir in the cream mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes. Add cooked penne and toss to coat evenly.
6. 6 Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

🔧Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot with lid
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Oven (optional, for baking chicken)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 8❤️Cholesterol: 100🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 50🥦Dietary Fiber: 4🍬Sugars: 8🥩Protein: 35

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.,Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.,Make ahead: Assemble the sauce and refrigerate for up to 2 days before reheating with pasta.

This Chicken Penne recipe is always a reliable choice for family gatherings because it’s simple enough to make without stressing over complicated techniques, yet it delivers a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners because you can prep the sauce ahead and just toss in the pasta when ready, saving time without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—kids love the pasta, and adults appreciate the rich, savory sauce that makes it feel special, no matter how often you serve it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

1. What is the origin or inspiration behind the Chicken Penne recipe?

The Chicken Penne recipe is a classic Italian-American dish that blends rich, savory flavors with a comforting pasta experience. It draws inspiration from traditional Italian pasta dishes like Penne all’Amatriciana or Penne alla Vodka, but with a hearty twist featuring tender chicken. The dish became popular in the U.S. during the mid-20th century as a way to repurpose leftover chicken into a satisfying, one-pot meal. The creamy, cheesy sauce and tender pasta make it a beloved comfort food, often served at family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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2. What ingredients are typically included in the classic Chicken Penne recipe?

A traditional Chicken Penne recipe usually includes: – Pasta: Penne rigate (ridged penne) or similar shapes. – Protein: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. – Sauce: A mix of marinara sauce, heavy cream, and sometimes a splash of red wine or chicken broth for depth. – Cheese: Grated Parmesan and sometimes mozzarella or a blend of cheeses. – Aromatics: Garlic, onions, and sometimes fresh herbs like basil or parsley. – Seasonings: Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and sometimes a pinch of nutmeg or thyme. – Optional add-ins: Cooked mushrooms, spinach, or a touch of cream cheese for extra richness.

The sauce is often simmered with the chicken to absorb flavors, then finished with pasta and cheese for a creamy, indulgent result.

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3. How do you ensure the chicken stays tender while cooking in the sauce?

Cooking chicken in a sauce can make it tough if not handled properly. Here’s how to keep it tender: – Pre-cook the chicken: Sear or poach the chicken separately before adding it to the sauce to set the protein’s outer layer. This prevents overcooking in the sauce. – Use a low simmer: Avoid boiling the sauce, as it can break down the chicken fibers. Keep it at a gentle simmer (just bubbles, not rolling). – Add later: Once the sauce is fully cooked (with pasta and veggies), add the chicken in the last 5–7 minutes to let it absorb flavors without overcooking. – Cut evenly: Smaller, uniform pieces cook faster and more evenly than large chunks. – Rest the chicken: After cooking, let it rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to retain juices.

For extra tenderness, you can also marinate the chicken in a light mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.

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4. Can you substitute any ingredients in the Chicken Penne recipe, and what are the vegetarian or vegan alternatives?

Yes! Here are some flexible substitutions: – Chicken: Use shrimp, sausage, or even jackfruit for a plant-based option. For a vegan version, swap chicken for mushrooms (like portobello or cremini) or tofu. – Pasta: Try spaghetti, fusilli, or even gluten-free penne if needed. – Sauce: Replace marinara with tomato sauce, pesto, or a white sauce (like Alfredo) for a different flavor profile. – Cheese: Skip Parmesan and use vegan cheese or omit it entirely. For a dairy-free version, add nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. – Cream: Use coconut milk, cashew cream, or a splash of broth for a lighter sauce.

For a vegetarian version, focus on rich, cheesy sauces with hearty veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.

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5. How do you customize the Chicken Penne recipe for dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free, low-carb, or dairy-free)?

Here’s how to adapt the recipe: – Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta (like rice or chickpea-based penne) and ensure all sauces (broths, marinara, cream) are certified gluten-free. Avoid cross-contamination if sharing a kitchen. – Low-carb: Swap penne for zucchini noodles (zoodles), cauliflower rice, or shirataki noodles. Add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to bulk it up. – Dairy-free: Replace cream with cashew cream, coconut milk, or a dairy-free Alfredo sauce. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Skip mozzarella and opt for dairy-free shredded cheese. – Keto-friendly: Choose low-carb pasta (e.g., almond flour penne) and load up on cheese, mushrooms, or avocado for healthy fats. – Lactose-free: Use lactose-free milk or cream in the sauce if keeping dairy.

For a budget-friendly twist, add beans (like kidney or black beans) to increase protein without extra cost. Always taste and adjust seasoning, as some substitutions alter flavor profiles.