Do Share Recipe

My Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Experience

I made this Chicken Penne Pasta recipe last night, and I can’t stop thinking about it. The flavors were rich, the sauce was velvety, and it took me less than 30 minutes to whip up! This is one of those meals that feels like comfort food but doesn’t take forever in the kitchen.

Plus, it reminds me a little of my Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe—just faster and on the stovetop! You’ll love every bite of it.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Penne Pasta

Each ingredient in this pasta dish has a purpose—from the juicy chicken to the creamy sauce. Here’s everything you’ll need and why:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound) – Fresh chicken works best for a juicy and tender bite.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the meat and pasta.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a mild kick without overpowering the dish.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Helps sear the chicken and gives it a beautiful golden crust.
½ pound penne pasta (about 2 cups) – Holds sauce well; ideal for creamy pasta recipes.
2 tablespoons butter – Makes the sauce extra rich and flavorful.
2 tablespoons garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds depth and aroma to the dish.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce into a creamy consistency.
1 cup heavy cream – The star of the creamy sauce.
½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water) – Balances the cream and adds a savory layer.
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated – Adds salty, nutty flavor. Always grate it fresh!
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste) – Seasoning for the sauce.
¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste) – Final touch of warmth.
1 teaspoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – Adds freshness and a pop of color.

Note: This ingredient list serves approximately 4 people generously.

Creative Variations for Every Taste

You can easily adapt this recipe based on your diet or preferences. I’ve tried a few swaps myself and they still taste amazing. This is also a great addition to your list of go-to dinner recipes.

Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative. Swap out the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese.
Low-Carb Option: Try it with zucchini noodles or cooked spaghetti squash instead of penne.
Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne if you love heat.

Cooking Time: Quick and Efficient

This recipe is great for busy weeknights when you need something fast but flavorful.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need in the Kitchen

Here’s the minimal kitchen gear you’ll need to make this dish:

Large Pot – To boil the pasta.
Large Skillet – For cooking the chicken and tossing the pasta in sauce.
Tongs or Spatula – To flip and handle the chicken easily.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate seasoning and sauce consistency.
Grater – Freshly grated cheese really does make a difference.

How to Make Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe

Making this pasta dish is simple, yet the end result feels gourmet. Follow these steps to bring it all together.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your penne and cook it until just al dente—usually about 8–10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts completely dry with a paper towel. This step is key for getting that golden sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat a bit of oil in a skillet and cook the chicken for about 6–8 minutes on each side, or until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Let it rest a moment before slicing it into strips.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt some butter and add the minced garlic. Cook it for about a minute until fragrant. Then stir in the flour, whisking quickly to form a smooth paste. This is your sauce base.

Step 4: Add the Liquids and Cheese

Pour in your heavy cream and chicken broth (or the reserved pasta water). Bring it all to a gentle simmer while stirring. Then mix in the grated Parmesan and continue to cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season it with a bit more salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now add the sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until it’s evenly coated with that rich, cheesy sauce. Top with fresh parsley if you like a pop of green.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe multiple times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really make a difference:

Always dry the chicken thoroughly before cooking—it helps with browning.
Fresh Parmesan melts better and tastes more flavorful than the pre-shredded kind.
If you use broth instead of pasta water, go for low-sodium to control salt levels.
Don’t overcook the pasta. It’ll continue to cook a bit when tossed in the hot sauce.
Let the cooked chicken rest for a minute before slicing—it keeps it juicy.

How to Serve Chicken Penne Pasta?

Presentation makes a big impact when serving this pasta dish. You can plate it in a shallow white bowl for a restaurant-style look. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top.

For a side, a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread complements the creamy texture perfectly. Want more variety? This pasta pairs surprisingly well with a cozy Baked Potato Soup Recipe for a comfort food combo that’ll please the whole family.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutrition per serving:

Calories: Around 520
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 28g

How to Store the Chicken Penne Pasta

Storing in Fridge: Let the pasta cool fully before sealing it in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container and let it cool completely before freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short 30-second bursts, stirring between each.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This pasta dish is more than just a quick fix. It checks all the boxes:

Super Quick and Easy: Done in under 30 minutes, start to finish.
One-Pan Wonder: Less mess in the kitchen and fewer dishes to wash.
Creamy and Flavorful: Rich garlic-Parmesan sauce makes it feel indulgent.
Customizable: Make it spicy, dairy-free, or veggie-loaded with easy swaps.
Family Favorite: Kid-approved and perfect for casual weeknight dinners.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

Want that perfect bite every time? Steer clear of these common errors:

Don’t overcook the pasta—it should still have a little bite.
Avoid using pre-shredded cheese—it doesn’t melt well and can clump.
Don’t skip seasoning the chicken—it builds flavor from the start.
Be careful not to over-thicken the sauce; it will thicken more as it cools.
Don’t cover hot pasta when storing—it makes it mushy.

More Info for a Better Experience

For an even better result, you can make this recipe part of your weekly dinner routine. Pair it with seasonal vegetables or change up the protein for variety. If you enjoy this dish, you’ll likely also love other comfort meals like baked ziti, chicken Alfredo, or my favorite—Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Marsala Recipe.

Want something with a twist? Try adding roasted red peppers, a dash of paprika, or a handful of fresh basil.

Ben Carraoli