Creamy Chicken Penne Delightful and Easy Recipe

January 5, 2026February 8, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Penne

– 12 oz penne pasta

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers

– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

– Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Gather these ingredients first. The penne pasta serves as the base and holds the creamy sauce well. Chicken breast gives protein and heartiness. Heavy cream adds richness while Parmesan cheese brings a savory depth.

Next, olive oil, garlic, and onion build the flavor foundation. Italian seasoning gives a touch of classic Italian taste. Do not forget the sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Lastly, fresh basil leaves offer a fragrant touch. Extra Parmesan cheese can enhance the dish’s look and flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Penne Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Make sure to add a good amount of salt. This helps flavor the pasta. Once the water is boiling, add the 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes. You want the pasta to be al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. When done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Preparing the Chicken

Next, we’ll prepare the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 lb of diced chicken breast. Sprinkle it with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to turn golden brown and cook all the way through. Once finished, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to make the creamy sauce. In the same skillet, add 1 medium finely chopped onion and 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and clear. The garlic will smell wonderful. Next, pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a light simmer. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Bringing It All Together

Now, let’s combine everything. Add the sautéed chicken back into the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Toss gently to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Taste it and adjust seasoning if needed. You might want a bit more salt or pepper. Serve the creamy chicken penne in bowls. For a lovely touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving al dente pasta

To get perfect penne, boil water with salt. Add the pasta and cook it for 10-12 minutes. Check it a minute early. You want it firm but not hard. Drain it well to avoid sogginess.

Creaminess tips for the sauce

For a rich sauce, use heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir the cheese in slowly so it melts well. This makes the sauce smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it.

Flavor Enhancements

Additional seasonings or herbs to try

You can add fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. Try adding lemon zest for a fresh taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite spices.

Suggested cheese variations

While Parmesan is great, you can mix in mozzarella for extra stretch. Goat cheese adds a tangy twist. For a stronger flavor, consider using Pecorino Romano. Mixing cheeses gives depth to your dish.

Time-saving Tips

Prepping ingredients in advance

Chop your garlic and onion ahead of time. Dice the chicken and store it in the fridge. This makes cooking faster and easier when you’re ready to whip up the dish.

Using rotisserie chicken

For a quick meal, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it to the sauce. This saves time and adds great flavor. Plus, it makes this dish even easier to prepare!

Variations

Veggie Variations

You can boost the nutrition of Creamy Chicken Penne by adding veggies. Think about mixing in fresh spinach or colorful bell peppers. Spinach wilts nicely in the creamy sauce. Bell peppers add a nice crunch and sweetness. You can easily make it a one-pan dish. Just throw your veggies in with the onions and garlic. Sauté until soft. Then add the chicken and continue with the sauce. This way, you cut down on dishes and keep all the flavors in one place.

Protein Alternatives

If you want a twist on this dish, try changing the protein. Shrimp makes a great swap for chicken. It cooks fast and adds a seafood touch. Tofu is a good choice for a veggie option. Just cube it and sauté until golden. You can also use leftover meats like rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds extra flavor. Just toss your cooked meat into the sauce instead of fresh chicken.

Dietary Modifications

For those needing gluten-free options, choose gluten-free penne pasta. Many brands make it tasty and just as satisfying. If you want a lighter version, consider using lighter cream or dairy-free milk. Coconut milk works well for a unique flavor. You can also find non-dairy creamers that fit your needs. These swaps let you enjoy the dish while sticking to your diet.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Creamy Chicken Penne fresh, follow these simple steps. First, let the dish cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation in the container. Next, use an airtight container to store your leftovers. Glass containers work great and do not absorb smells. You can also use plastic containers, but make sure they seal tightly. Store the dish in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. The best way to reheat Creamy Chicken Penne is on the stove. Place it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist. Stir it gently until heated through. This method helps maintain the dish’s creamy texture and flavor. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing Advice

Yes, you can freeze Creamy Chicken Penne! To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into airtight containers. Label the containers with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. For defrosting, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat following the methods above. If you notice the sauce is thick, add a little broth when reheating. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious!

FAQs

How long does Creamy Chicken Penne last in the fridge?

Creamy Chicken Penne lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep Creamy Chicken Penne in advance. Cook the pasta and chicken, then store them separately. This keeps them fresh. When you are ready to serve, combine them with the sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you need a substitute for heavy cream, use half-and-half or full-fat Greek yogurt. You can also mix milk with butter. These options will keep the dish creamy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

This recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook a big batch and divide it into portions. Store each portion in a container. When ready to eat, just heat it up.

In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients and steps for making creamy chicken penne. From cooking the perfect pasta to creating a rich sauce, I shared tips to enhance flavor and texture. You can adapt the recipe with vegetables or different proteins. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat them for the best taste. Enjoy this dish as a weeknight meal or a comforting treat. Now, get cooking and share your delicious result