Name: Chicken Penne Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta (cooked according to package instructions); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; dash freshly ground black pepper; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 small yellow onion (diced); 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup half and half; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (plus more for topping); 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; dash freshly ground black pepper; 6 ounces fresh baby spinach (roughly 1 cup); 2 vine-ripened tomatoes (diced); fresh parsley (for topping)

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Chicken Penne Pasta is a dish that brings together the savory flavors of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a delightful experience with every bite. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends, this recipe stands out as a versatile and satisfying choice. The combination of Italian seasoning and garlic imparts a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen, promising a delicious meal ahead. Trust me, the moment you taste that creamy sauce enveloping the penne, you’ll understand why this dish has claimed a spot in the hearts of many.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Chicken Penne Pasta
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Chicken Penne Pasta

This Chicken Penne Pasta recipe is not just about great taste; it’s incredibly simple and quick to whip up, making it a perfect option for busy days. With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, you’ll have dinner on the table before you know it! Plus, this dish is a hit even among picky eaters. It’s colorful, bursting with flavor, and so satisfying that everyone will come back for seconds. I’m truly excited for you to try this recipe that promises to be a family favorite quickly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in only 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: Creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach come together in harmony.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors make this dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Flexible Serving: Serve it for dinner, meal prep for lunches, or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cream.

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 ounces penne pasta: Cook according to package instructions for the perfect al dente texture.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Enhances flavor and helps sauté the chicken; use an additional tablespoon later.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth to the dish; feel free to use dried herbs.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Brings out the flavors; adjust based on your taste preferences.
Dash fresh black pepper: A little kick that complements the dish nicely.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Thinly pounded for even cooking; can substitute with cutlets.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for the chicken): Helps brown the chicken and prevent sticking.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic brings a wonderful fragrance; you might use garlic powder if needed.
1 small yellow onion (diced): Provides sweetness and texture; a shallot can be a great substitute.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce; cornstarch works if you need a gluten-free option.
1 cup chicken broth: A flavorful base for the sauce; low-sodium varieties can reduce salt intake.
1 cup half and half: Creates a creamy sauce; use heavy cream for a richer consistency or a plant-based option for dairy-free.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan: Adds sharp, salty flavor; reserve extra for garnish on top.
1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Enriches the sauce; stirring this in will enhance the overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: To season the sauce perfectly; use less if you’re watching sodium intake.
Dash fresh black pepper: For that final touch of heat.
6 ounces fresh baby spinach: Adds color and nutrients; can substitute with kale or another leafy green.
2 vine-ripened tomatoes (diced): Offers a bright, fresh contrast; cherry tomatoes can be used as well.
Fresh parsley (for topping): Brightens up the dish visually and adds a fresh flavor.

How to Make Chicken Penne Pasta

Cook the Penne Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
Prep the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, pound the 1 pound of chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking. Season both sides with 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden brown color. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest.
Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Toss in the diced 1 small yellow onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Flour: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic. Stir it in, cooking for an additional minute to create a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
Mix in the Liquids: Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and followed by 1 cup of half and half, stirring continuously until the mixture starts to bubble and slightly thicken.
Incorporate the Cheese & Seasoning: Stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, 1/2 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and a dash of black pepper. Continue cooking until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Add Spinach & Tomatoes: Gently fold in the 6 ounces of fresh baby spinach and the 2 diced vine-ripened tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
Combine Everything: Dice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet along with the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, when the flavors are at their most vibrant!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Chicken Penne Pasta, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, transfer the dish to a freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken after freezing, so adding a splash of chicken broth or half and half while reheating can help revive its creaminess.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider cutting them into cutlets for faster cooking.
Use room temperature ingredients for the best mixing and texture.
For a bit of extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking.
Experiment with different protein sources like shrimp or tofu based on your dietary preferences.
Making it ahead? Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, and combine them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Don’t overcook the spinach; add it towards the end to preserve its bright color and nutrients.

The creamy, luscious flavors of Chicken Penne Pasta are sure to impress family and friends alike while remaining comforting and humble enough for a regular weeknight meal. I encourage you to try your hand at this versatile dish, even feeling free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Cooking is all about enjoyment and experimentation, after all, so make it yours. I can’t wait for you to savor every bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Chicken Penne Pasta gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the regular penne pasta with a gluten-free variety. You may also want to ensure that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free as well.

How can I enhance the flavor of the sauce?

To elevate the sauce’s flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and garlic. Let it reduce before adding the chicken broth to deepen the taste. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme also work beautifully in this dish.

Can I freeze leftover Chicken Penne Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze your Chicken Penne Pasta! Just be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

What can I substitute for half and half?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whole milk or a mix of milk and heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut milk or almond milk, but note that it may change the flavor profile slightly.