Chicken Penne Pasta

Savor the Creamy Comfort of Homemade Chicken Penne Pasta

Embark on a culinary journey with this irresistible chicken penne pasta recipe that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce. Transform your kitchen into a gourmet restaurant with this crowd-pleasing dish that's both elegant and comforting.

Whether you're planning a cozy family dinner or hosting friends for a special occasion, this chicken penne pasta delivers restaurant-quality flavors right to your dining table. Ready to create a pasta masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let's dive into this foolproof recipe that's sure to become a family favorite.

Master the Art of Chicken Penne Pasta

This chicken penne pasta recipe doesn't just deliver on taste – it's a complete sensory experience that combines the richness of cream, the savory notes of perfectly seasoned chicken, and the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked pasta. Looking for more pasta inspiration? Check out our creamy mushroom pasta recipe for another delightful option.

For those who love Italian-inspired dishes, you might also enjoy our easy baked ziti for a different take on pasta perfection. Here's everything you need to know to create this showstopping pasta dish that rivals your favorite restaurant versions.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this creamy chicken penne pasta with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. If you're looking for more complementary dishes, our hot spinach artichoke dip makes an excellent appetizer.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Penne Pasta:

1. Al Dente Perfection: Cook your pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce
2. Temperature Control: Start with room temperature cream to prevent sauce separation
3. Proper Seasoning: Season each component (chicken, pasta water, and sauce) separately for layers of flavor
4. Sauce Consistency: Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce thickness as needed
5. Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce texture

Storage Solutions:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce's creamy consistency. For more meal-prep inspiration, check out our easy creamy beef and shells.

Restaurant-Style Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Equipment: Large pot, colander, large skillet, measuring cups and spoons

This chicken penne pasta recipe brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures. For more Italian-inspired dishes, try our baked feta pasta.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta & Sauce:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 3 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Prepare Your Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Create the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes or until it starts to thicken slightly.
4. Perfect the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. For an extra creamy sauce, stir in mozzarella cheese as well. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), adjusting to taste.
5. Combine Components: Add the cooked pasta and the chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Cook everything together for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm, with extra Parmesan on the side.

Ready to Relish!

This chicken penne pasta delivers a perfect blend of creamy comfort and Italian-inspired flavors that will make any dinner feel special. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and rich, velvety sauce creates a memorable dish that's sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

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