penne vodka with chicken recipe
The Best penne vodka with chicken recipe
Oh, I’ll be honest—this Penne Vodka with Chicken recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels like a hug for your taste buds. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit, whether we’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or a more formal meal with friends. The creamy, tangy vodka sauce clings to the al dente penne perfectly, and the chicken is so tender it practically melts in your mouth. My kids—especially my picky one—always ask for seconds because it’s not just food; it’s comfort in every bite. And let’s not forget the kids’ table at the local diner where this dish gets a standing ovation every time.
What makes this recipe special isn’t just the flavor, though. It’s how it balances so many things at once—rich without being heavy, satisfying without being greasy, and packed with nutrients that make it a smart choice. The penne gives you a good dose of carbs for energy, the chicken is a lean protein, and the creamy vodka sauce adds healthy fats that keep you full longer. Plus, it’s got a little kick of brightness from the garlic and red pepper flakes that make it feel fresh even when it’s simmering on the stove. My husband swears it’s the only thing that makes his dinner plate feel like a celebration, and honestly? It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t need much extra effort—just a little prep, some stirring, and suddenly, you’ve got a meal that feels like a reward. It’s the kind of dish that works for everyday eating, but it also shines when you’re hosting a small gathering or just treating yourself to something special. No fuss, no fail—just delicious.
Penne Vodka with Chicken
A rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken paired with creamy penne pasta in a vodka-infused tomato sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 12 oz penne pasta
- ½ cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1.5 cups tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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2 While chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
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3 In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft (about 3 minutes). Add tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
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4 In a bowl, whisk together vodka, heavy cream, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Pour sauce into the same pan, stirring to combine. Add the vodka cream mixture and simmer for 2 minutes.
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5 Add cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Stir in remaining Parmesan and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Food processor (optional for cream sauce)
- Oven (if baking chicken)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Penne Vodka with Chicken Works
This Penne Vodka with Chicken recipe is always a solid choice for family gatherings because it’s simple enough to make ahead and still tastes great when served hot. It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without being too heavy, and the vodka adds a nice depth of flavor that keeps things interesting—whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a holiday meal. Plus, the dish feels special without needing fancy ingredients or long preparation, which is perfect when you want to focus on enjoying time together rather than stressing over the menu.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Penne Vodka with Chicken
What is the best way to prepare the marinade for the penne vodka with chicken recipe?
To prepare the marinade, mix ½ cup of vodka, ¼ cup of olive oil, 2 tbsp of soy sauce, 2 tbsp of honey, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tbsp of lemon juice, 1 tsp of dried oregano, ½ tsp of black pepper, and ½ tsp of salt. Let the chicken marinate in this mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
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Can I substitute vodka with another type of alcohol in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute vodka, but the flavor will differ. White wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio), dry sherry, or even a bit of bourbon mixed with olive oil can work, though vodka’s neutral taste helps blend well with the other ingredients. Just reduce the liquid slightly to compensate for the added alcohol.
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How should I cook the penne pasta to achieve the perfect al dente texture?
Boil the penne in salted water according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes for al dente). Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Cook the chicken separately in the same marinade (without vodka) for 15–20 minutes, then set aside. When adding the chicken back to the pasta, stir in the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and achieve a creamy texture.
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Why does the vodka in this dish help enhance the flavors?
Vodka acts as a solvent, helping to extract flavors from the garlic, herbs, and spices in the marinade. Its neutral taste also prevents overpowering the dish while contributing a subtle, crisp finish. The alcohol evaporates during cooking, but its presence ensures a well-rounded, balanced flavor profile.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade and cooked chicken in advance, but reheat the dish gently to avoid drying out the chicken. Store the pasta and chicken mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of pasta water to keep it creamy. For best results, serve it fresh, though reheated portions can still be delicious.
