Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta: A Flavorful Family Delight

The aroma of freshly cooked Chicken Penne Pasta wafts through the air, inviting you to dive into a creamy, dreamy plate of goodness. With every twirl of pasta, you’ll uncover a blend of flavors that dance in your mouth, making it impossible to resist going back for seconds (or thirds).

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chaotic Wednesday evening. The kids were buzzing with energy, and my husband was desperately trying to avoid stepping on a Lego landmine. But there I was, whipping up this delightful Chicken Penne Pasta like a culinary superhero, saving dinner one noodle at a time. The laughter around the table as we dug in made all the chaos worth it. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without losing your mind.

Ingredients for Chicken Penne Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Penne Pasta: About 12 ounces works well; choose whole wheat for an added health kick.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Approximately 1 pound will do; cut them into bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking.

• Olive Oil: Use about two tablespoons; extra virgin adds richness and flavor.

• Fresh Garlic: Mince three cloves; fresh garlic provides the best flavor compared to jarred versions.

• Heavy Cream: About one cup gives the sauce its luscious creaminess—don’t skimp on this!

For the Sauce:

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate about half a cup; freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.

• Italian Seasoning: One tablespoon enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Penne Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 10-12 minutes should do it. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and let it heat up. Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink—about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Once your chicken is looking fabulous, toss in the minced garlic and stir well. Let that sizzle for about one minute until fragrant—trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in your Italian seasoning while stirring everything together. Bring it to a gentle simmer before adding in that glorious Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth—a creamy dream indeed!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked penne pasta back into the skillet and toss until evenly coated with that heavenly sauce. Let it cook together for another minute or two so everything melds perfectly.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your scrumptious Chicken Penne Pasta onto plates and garnish with some extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy! Maybe even add a sprinkle of fresh basil if you’ve got some lying around—that’s how you know you’ve hit culinary gold.

Enjoy this delightful dish with family or friends—it’s bound to bring smiles all around!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the perfect Chicken Penne Pasta, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While that sizzles away, boil your penne pasta to al dente perfection and prepare your creamy sauce in a separate pan. Timing is everything!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or add your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with different seasonings like basil or red pepper flakes to give your Chicken Penne Pasta a unique flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to keep everything moist and delicious while warming it up on the stovetop.

Sometimes, I whip up this Chicken Penne Pasta when friends come over, and their faces light up with delight—nothing beats that moment when they ask for seconds!

FAQs:

What is Chicken Penne Pasta?

Chicken Penne Pasta is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken pieces with penne pasta, usually tossed in a creamy or tomato-based sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners and can be customized with various vegetables and seasonings. It’s a popular choice among pasta lovers for its comforting flavors and satisfying textures.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Penne Pasta?

Preparing Chicken Penne Pasta typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. This includes cooking the penne pasta, sautéing the chicken, and mixing everything with your chosen sauce. With its quick prep time, this dish is an excellent option for busy evenings when you crave something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I make Chicken Penne Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chicken Penne Pasta ahead of time! To do so, cook the pasta and chicken as instructed, then combine them with the sauce. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.

What variations can I try with Chicken Penne Pasta?

You can experiment with various ingredients to create your perfect Chicken Penne Pasta. Consider adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You can also switch up the sauce by using Alfredo, pesto, or marinara. These variations allow you to enjoy different tastes while keeping the core of the dish intact.

Conclusion for Chicken Penne Pasta:

In summary, Chicken Penne Pasta is a versatile and satisfying meal that caters to various tastes and preferences. With simple preparation steps and quick cooking times, it’s ideal for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and sauces to keep things exciting. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, this dish promises comfort in every bite.

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Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta

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Savor the rich flavors of this Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta, where tender chicken and al dente penne unite in a luscious sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish is quick to prepare and easily customizable. Enjoy a comforting meal that guarantees smiles around the table without the hassle!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
4. Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle Italian seasoning; bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Toss cooked penne pasta in the sauce until evenly coated. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: - For added nutrition, incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. - Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for different dietary preferences. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of cream or broth.