Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner that’s guaranteed to impress – Chicken Penne Pasta! I can’t rave enough about this recipe; it’s a delicious fusion of tender chicken, hearty pasta, and mouthwatering sauce that comes together in no time flat. I swear, every time I make it, the house fills with this heavenly aroma that brings everyone to the kitchen faster than a pizza delivery!
It was introduced to me by a dear friend from college who always had a knack for whipping up a storm in the kitchen. We spent countless evenings experimenting with different sauces and pasta shapes. This Chicken Penne Pasta recipe stuck with me because not only is it comforting, but it’s also versatile – you can mix it up with whatever veggies you have lying around, and it never fails to hit the spot!
What’s in Chicken Penne Pasta?
Penne Pasta: The star of the dish! I love using whole wheat penne for a nutty flavor and added health benefits. You can, of course, go for traditional semolina pasta if you prefer.
Chicken Breast: I typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they’re lean and cook up incredibly tender. Grilling or pan-searing them gives them a lovely golden crust.
Olive Oil: This liquid gold not only adds flavor but helps in cooking the chicken to juicy perfection. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its rich taste.
Garlic: You know I can’t resist garlic! It adds a warm, fragrant depth to the dish. Use fresh cloves if you can; the aroma is irresistible.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. I like to keep it light by using just enough to create a great texture without drowning the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is the way to go here! It melts beautifully and imparts a rich, nutty flavor that’s hard to resist.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme sprinkles a taste of Italy into the dish!
Is Chicken Penne Pasta Good for You?
This Chicken Penne Pasta can be a healthy option if you tweak a few ingredients and portion sizes!
Chicken Breast: Packed with protein, this lean meat helps build muscle and keeps you feeling full for longer. Just be mindful of how much you use when sticking to a balanced diet.
Pasta: Choosing whole wheat penne increases fiber intake, which is fantastic for digestion. The key is to not overdo it – portion control is essential.
Heavy Cream: While it does add a rich texture, it’s also high in calories and saturated fat. You can always replace it with a lighter option like half-and-half or even a cashew cream for a healthier version.
If you’re mindful of your ingredients and balance it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables on the side, this dish can fit nicely into a health-conscious meal plan.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups penne pasta (serves about 4)
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Chicken Penne Pasta?
1. Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions. Make sure to salt the water generously – it’s the only opportunity to season the pasta itself!
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Next, add in the cooked penne pasta and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Finally, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and mix to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve it hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy!
Creative Twists on Chicken Penne Pasta
– **Veggie Boost:** Add in your favorite veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a colorful twist.
– **Spicy Kick:** If you’re a fan of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or slices of fresh chili – it’s sure to give it a nice zing!
– **Cheesy Variation:** Consider using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a gooey texture.
I can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Penne Pasta! It’s a dish that not only fills your belly but also fills your heart with warmth. I’d love to know how it turns out for you, or if you added your own spin to the recipe – sharing is what friends do, right? Happy cooking!
