chicken penne pasta

The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil fills the kitchen as you prepare to dive into a plate of chicken penne pasta. Imagine the tender pieces of chicken mingling with al dente penne, all coated in a rich sauce that dances on your taste buds. If your mouth isn’t watering yet, just wait until the flavors unite!

Let me tell you about the time I made this dish for my friends during a game night. As soon as they took the first bite, it was like witnessing a culinary miracle unfold—eyes widened, forks twirled in delight, and suddenly everyone was a food critic.

I remember one evening when I served this dish at a family gathering; everyone’s smiles told me everything I needed to know!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on your guest count.
• Penne Pasta: The star of our show! Choose whole wheat or regular based on your preference.
• Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil enhances flavors while keeping things healthy.
• Fresh Garlic: Use 2-3 cloves for that aromatic kick that makes everyone wonder what’s cooking.
• Heavy Cream: For that luscious sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of chicken and pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh cheese adds depth and richness; it’s simply non-negotiable!
• Spinach (optional): A handful adds color and nutrients; plus, who doesn’t love sneaking in some greens?
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors in our dish!

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

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced boneless chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside.

Add Garlic & Spinach: Toss in minced garlic and stir until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then add fresh spinach if using. Cook until wilted.

Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring gently. Allow it to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix thoroughly for that creamy goodness.

Toss Everything Together: Mix in cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce until fully coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Strongly suggest garnishing with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs before serving!

Now you have an amazing plate of chicken penne pasta ready to share—or maybe just indulge in yourself while binge-watching that show you’ve been meaning to catch up on! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken first to lock in juices. While it cooks, boil the pasta and prepare your sauce for a seamless cooking experience.

Add Your Touch

Get creative with this dish! Substitute penne with fusilli or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

The first time I made chicken penne pasta, my friends devoured it in minutes! Their compliments warmed my heart, and I knew I had created something special.

FAQ

What can I use instead of penne pasta?

You can substitute penne with fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti for variety.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply replace chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I freeze leftover chicken penne pasta?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just store in airtight containers and enjoy later.

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Delicious Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe

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Chicken Penne Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender chicken and al dente penne, perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 680g)
• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (100g)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, approx. 60g)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook penne until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside, about 6-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add garlic and spinach: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). If using, add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Create sauce: Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Combine: Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss until fully coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

• Customize your dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
•  For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with grilled veggies or tofu.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 110mg