easy penne recipe with chicken

The Best easy penne recipe with chicken

Oh, this easy penne with chicken recipe is one of those things that feels like a no-brainer—simple enough to make when life gets busy, but still packed with flavor that makes it feel special. I love it because it’s the kind of dish that doesn’t require a lot of fancy techniques, yet it still tastes like home. My kids will eat it straight from the pan, and my husband always says it’s the only pasta he’ll have left over if I make too much. It’s that good. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or even just a fresh batch, and you can adjust the seasoning to whatever you’re craving—spicy, mild, or just a little bit of garlic and herbs. It’s not just quick, it’s versatile, and it’s got that perfect balance of tender pasta and juicy chicken that makes every bite satisfying.

This recipe is also one of those things that works for everything—whether you’re feeding a family of six for dinner or just making a quick meal for yourself. The penne soaks up the sauce well, and the chicken adds protein without being heavy. My kids love it because it’s not too salty, and my husband appreciates how easy it is to make without feeling like I’m spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s got some real health perks. The chicken is lean, and the whole wheat penne adds a little extra fiber if you want to swap in a different kind of pasta. It’s not just filling, it’s nourishing, and it’s something you can make ahead and reheat without losing its flavor. That’s the kind of dish that feels like a win every time.

Easy Penne with Chicken and Creamy Tomato Sauce

4.5 from 1484 votes

A quick and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender penne pasta with juicy chicken and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup (240ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is no longer pink (about 6-7 minutes). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
2. 2 In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. 3 While the sauce simmers, cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
4. 4 In a separate bowl, mix heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Stir well and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
5. 5 Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, along with the cooked chicken. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes if needed to heat through.
6. 6 Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Transfer the dish to a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to melt the cheese slightly, if desired.

🔧Equipment

• Large skillet or deep pan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Fork or meat tenderizer
• Cheese grater
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 8❤️Cholesterol: 70🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 45🥦Dietary Fiber: 4🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 30

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh basil to the sauce.,Substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer taste.,Use whole wheat penne pasta for a healthier option.

This easy chicken penne recipe is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple to make but feels special enough for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering. The tender chicken and creamy sauce hide the prep work, so you can focus on enjoying time with loved ones instead of stressing over complicated steps. Plus, it’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without being too heavy, making it a reliable go-to for busy days or holiday meals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Penne with Chicken and Creamy Tomato Sauce

What is the easiest way to cook penne pasta with chicken, and what are the essential ingredients I should have on hand?

The easiest way to make penne with chicken involves sautéing ground chicken in olive oil, adding diced tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, then tossing in cooked penne and simmering until everything is well combined. Essential ingredients include penne pasta, ground chicken, diced tomatoes (canned or fresh), garlic, onion, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a splash of chicken broth or water. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.

How do I avoid making penne with chicken dry or mushy, and what’s the right cooking time for penne?

To keep penne moist, cook it al dente (slightly firm to the bite) and toss it with the sauce immediately after draining. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the pasta mushy. The right cooking time for penne is usually 8–10 minutes in boiling salted water, but check your package instructions. Once cooked, drain, reserving a little pasta water, then mix in the sauce—adding a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of ground chicken, and how do shredded rotisserie chicken work in this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken like shredded rotisserie chicken—it saves time and adds flavor. Simply shred the chicken, mix it into the sauce with the cooked penne, and simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together. The key is to ensure the chicken is fully heated through before combining with the pasta.

What are some simple variations I can add to make this one-pot penne with chicken even more flavorful?

For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers, red onion, or spinach for freshness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. You can also swap diced tomatoes for a can of crushed tomatoes and add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese for a creamy twist. For a tangy kick, a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of Worcestershire sauce works well.

How do I make sure my penne with chicken stays creamy without using heavy cream or butter?

To achieve a creamy texture without heavy cream or butter, blend a can of crushed tomatoes with a splash of chicken broth, then stir it into the sauce. You can also add a small amount of Greek yogurt or sour cream (about ¼ cup) for richness. Another trick is to cook the chicken in a bit of chicken broth or water, then reduce it slightly to create a natural sauce base. Adding a spoonful of cornstarch mixed with water and stirring it into the sauce can also help thicken it.