When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s a steaming bowl of Chicken Penne Pasta that dances with flavors and warms the soul. Imagine tender chicken mingling with the al dente penne, all bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce that clings to every bite—pure bliss.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture yourself on a cozy evening, twirling your fork into this delightful concoction while sipping a glass of wine. The aroma wafts through the air, and you can’t help but smile as you take your first bite. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for this culinary adventure.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Penne Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will impress anyone at your dinner table
- You can customize the ingredients based on what you have at home, making it both versatile and practical
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for any occasion from family dinners to date nights
- Not to mention, leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day!
Ingredients for Chicken Penne Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly, but adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Penne Pasta: Choose whole wheat or regular penne; both hold the sauce well and provide that satisfying texture.
Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil adds richness and helps prevent sticking.
Cream: Use heavy cream for a rich, velvety sauce that envelops each piece of pasta.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse incredible flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic gem!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan brings a nutty depth that’s simply irresistible.
For the Sauce:
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil adds a fresh note that balances the richness of the cream sauce.
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: Prepare Your Ingredients
First things first—gather all your ingredients and chop your garlic and basil. You don’t want to be scrambling around like a headless chicken when it’s time to cook!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside—do not rinse! We need that starch for our creamy sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and let it shimmer like a disco ball! Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet (because who wants extra dishes?), add more olive oil if needed, then toss in minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about one minute—and then pour in your chicken broth followed by cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked penne pasta back into the skillet along with diced chicken. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy goodness coats everything evenly.
Step 6: Finish With Freshness
Remove from heat and stir in chopped basil for that fresh pop of flavor. Transfer to plates and serve hot!
Now you’re ready to dig into this delightful Chicken Penne Pasta! The only thing left is deciding who gets the last bite—good luck with that!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken penne pasta recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for feeding a crowd but versatile enough for a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then set it aside. Cook the penne pasta al dente while preparing your sauce with garlic, tomatoes, and cream. Finally, combine everything for delicious harmony in every bite.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the penne for another pasta type like fusilli or farfalle. Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Spice lovers can toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for that fiery kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to revive its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender chicken, let it rest after cooking before slicing
- Use fresh herbs to elevate flavors; they make a world of difference!
- Lastly, don’t forget to taste as you go—seasoning is key!
I remember making this chicken penne pasta for a potluck once and watching my friends go back for seconds… and thirds! Their delight reminded me why I love cooking so much—food brings everyone together!
FAQs :
What is Chicken Penne Pasta?
Chicken Penne Pasta is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken pieces with penne pasta, often enhanced by a rich sauce. The dish may include ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, and herbs for added flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that can be tailored to individual tastes, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Penne Pasta?
Preparing Chicken Penne Pasta typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. This includes the time needed to cook the pasta and sauté the chicken. The quick cooking time makes it an ideal weeknight meal. With some preparation in advance, you can enjoy this delightful dish in no time.
Can I make Chicken Penne Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Chicken Penne Pasta ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep.
What variations can I try with Chicken Penne Pasta?
You can explore various variations of Chicken Penne Pasta by adding different vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also switch up the sauces by using Alfredo, marinara, or pesto for a unique twist. Experimenting with different cheeses or spices will give you endless options to enjoy this dish.
Conclusion for Chicken Penne Pasta :
Chicken Penne Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines juicy chicken with hearty penne pasta. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dinner or prepared in advance for busy days, this dish offers flexibility and taste. By experimenting with different ingredients and sauces, you can create a personalized version that suits your palate perfectly. Enjoy making this delightful recipe that is sure to impress family and friends alike!
Chicken Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chicken Penne Pasta is the epitome of comfort food, offering a delightful blend of tender chicken and al dente penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. This versatile dish not only dazzles with vibrant colors but also promises mouthwatering flavors that will impress family and friends alike. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, it’s easy to customize based on your pantry staples, ensuring a satisfying culinary adventure every time.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep all ingredients by chopping garlic and basil.
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper, cooking for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for one minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth followed by cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in cooked penne pasta and diced chicken, mixing until evenly coated with sauce. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Remove from heat and mix in chopped basil before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
