Every time I serve creamy chicken penne pasta, it feels like I’m wrapping my family in a warm, delicious hug. The rich sauce clings lovingly to each penne tube, while tender pieces of chicken swim happily in a sea of creamy goodness. If you’ve ever tried to resist the siren call of a hearty pasta dish, you know it’s nearly impossible. This dish is not just food; it’s comfort on a plate.
I can still remember the first time I made this recipe for my friends during a cozy get-together. As the aroma filled the kitchen, they were practically drooling before the first forkful even hit their lips. The laughter and joy that followed made it clear: creamy chicken penne pasta is best enjoyed with great company and good stories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken penne pasta is incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights
- The combination of savory chicken and rich sauce creates an unforgettable flavor experience
- Its visually appealing presentation makes it perfect for entertaining guests or family dinners
- Plus, you can easily customize ingredients based on personal preferences or pantry staples
I’ll never forget when my niece took one bite and declared it “the best thing ever.” It was like winning an Oscar for Best Aunt!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 breasts for a generous serving; feel free to adjust for your crowd.
Penne Pasta: Choose whole grain or gluten-free varieties if desired; both work beautifully in this dish.
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens; it gives that dreamy richness we crave.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated will elevate your dish—no one likes powdery impostors.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for robust flavor; garlic lovers rejoice!
Spinach: Adds color and nutrition; plus, your mom will be proud if you eat your greens.
Olive Oil: A drizzle goes a long way in enhancing flavors while keeping things healthy.
Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential; season to taste for maximum satisfaction.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make creamy chicken penne pasta
Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and rinse your spinach thoroughly.
Cook the Penne Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and add penne pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes.
Sauté Chicken and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the chicken pieces and sauté until they turn golden brown, roughly 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic towards the end to avoid burning.
Add Cream and Cheese: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with cooked chicken. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined—this step will make your heart sing with joy.
Toss in Spinach and Seasoning: Add fresh spinach to the skillet as well as salt and pepper. Cook until spinach wilts down—a beautiful green contrast against that luscious sauce.
Combine Pasta with Sauce: Drain your cooked penne pasta and add it directly to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until every piece of pasta gets coated with that creamy goodness.
With these steps complete, you’re ready to serve up some smiles along with those plates!
This creamy chicken penne pasta not only warms your belly but also fills your heart with joy—perfect for any occasion!
You Must Know
- Creamy chicken penne pasta is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken make it irresistible
- Don’t forget, this dish can easily impress guests or be a comforting weeknight meal for the family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best creamy chicken penne pasta, start by searing the chicken first. While it cooks, boil the penne and prepare your sauce simultaneously for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your dish! Swap out penne for fettuccine, toss in veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or sprinkle some parmesan on top for added flavor.
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 the pasta moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect creamy chicken penne pasta, ensure you cook the pasta al dente to maintain texture
- Always taste your sauce before serving; seasoning can transform flavors significantly
- Letting it rest before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully
Sometimes I whip up creamy chicken penne pasta when friends drop by unexpectedly; their faces light up at that first bite—it’s pure gold!
FAQ
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can use half-and-half or full-fat milk for a lighter version of the sauce.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it beforehand for even cooking.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F, ensuring it’s safe to eat.
Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta
Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. This delightful recipe features tender chicken enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce, clinging to perfectly cooked penne pasta. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and simple preparation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, rinsed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mincing the garlic.
- In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes).
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chicken pieces until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic towards the end.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add spinach and season with salt and pepper; cook until spinach wilts.
- Drain the penne and combine it with the sauce in the skillet, tossing gently to coat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating mushrooms or bell peppers. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use gluten-free penne for dietary needs.
