Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always filled with the comforting aromas of my mother and babcia whipping up hearty meals. One dish that has always held a special place in my heart is the creamy chicken penne alla. It’s a delightful fusion of Italian and American comfort food, a staple at our family gatherings, and a recipe I’ve lovingly modernized over the years. Picture this: tender chicken pieces nestled in a rich, creamy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, eager to share stories and laughter over a warm meal. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy chicken penne alla is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The rich, velvety sauce clings to each piece of penne, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can easily accommodate dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to cut down on carbs or need a gluten-free option, this recipe has got you covered. Not to mention, it’s a high-protein meal, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
To ensure your creamy chicken penne alla turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips. First, don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to absorb the sauce better. When cooking the chicken, make sure the skillet is hot enough to sear the pieces, locking in the juices. If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce. Finally, always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
COOKING TOOLS
When I make this recipe, my go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife for chopping the chicken into perfect bite-sized pieces. For ensuring the chicken is cooked to perfection, I rely on the MEATER SE Smart Meat Thermometer. And to make stirring the creamy sauce a breeze, the Silicone Utensils Set is a lifesaver, keeping my non-stick pans scratch-free.
Variations and Substitutions
This creamy chicken penne alla is wonderfully adaptable. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. If you’re looking to cut down on carbs, swap the penne for zucchini noodles or your favorite gluten-free pasta. Want to add some veggies? Spinach or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions. For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
To serve this creamy chicken penne alla, I love pairing it with a crisp Caesar salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy sauce beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon is refreshing and light.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish? While the sauce may change texture slightly when frozen, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, my creamy chicken penne alla—a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe with your loved ones, just as I have with mine. Cooking is all about creating memories and bringing joy to the table, so don’t forget to sprinkle in a little love and laughter along the way!
👉 I hope you loved making this creamy chicken penne alla—it’s like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. If you’re in the mood for more delicious dinners, you might enjoy these recipes: Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, Chicken Alfredo Bake, or Spicy Shrimp Pasta. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group—and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Creamy Chicken Penne Alla: 5 Romantic Dinners
A comforting and creamy pasta dish with tender chicken and rich sauce.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!