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chicken penne pasta recipe

The Best Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe with Tender Chicken

Creamy chicken penne pasta made with tender chicken, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a rich cream sauce. This easy homemade dinner is perfect for busy weeknights and ready in about 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 370
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach optional
  • 1 tablespoon butter optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet, Large pot, Wooden spoon, Measuring cups and spoons, Chef's knife, Cutting board, Colander, Instant-read thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ¼–½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes until golden and nearly cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  6. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and simmer gently for 4–6 minutes.
  7. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  8. Add the cooked penne and chicken back to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated.
  9. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
  10. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  11. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid overcooking after combining with the sauce.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for extra flavor.
  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.