Quick & Easy Chicken Penne Pasta (The Ultimate One-Dish Dinner)

Craving a dinner that hits all the right spots without turning your kitchen into a battleground? Easy Chicken Penne Pasta is the secret weapon for busy folks who want mouthwatering results without the fuss. Imagine tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a sauce so creamy it practically begs for seconds.

No bells, no whistles—just pure, unadulterated comfort food that’ll impress your taste buds and your timeline. Ready to make weeknight meals exciting again?

What Makes This Recipe So Good

This dish is the perfectly balanced trifecta of convenience, flavor, and versatility. First, it’s incredibly simple; even your least kitchen-savvy friend could master it.

Second, the combination of juicy chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta drenched in a luscious sauce is downright addictive. Third, it’s customizable — you can swap ingredients, add your favorite veggies, or even spice it up to suit your mood. The creamy texture and the garlic-herb aroma?

Next level cozy vibes right there.

Ingredients

• 2 cups penne pasta (uncooked)
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.

   Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

3. Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
4. Make the sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.

   Sprinkle in the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir and let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

5. Add cheese and chicken: Stir in the Parmesan until melted and creamy. Toss the cooked chicken back into the sauce.

   Let everything heat through.

6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained penne into the skillet. Mix thoroughly to coat every juicy piece of pasta with sauce.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for that fancy touch.

Keeping It Fresh

Want to keep the magic alive for your leftovers? Store your Easy Chicken Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce—nobody wants a dry plate, am I right? Freezing is possible but not ideal, as the cream sauce can separate and change texture. FYI, fresh parsley right before serving adds that bright, fresh pop!

Health Benefits

This dish isn’t just a soul-warmer; it packs decent nutritional value.

Chicken is a powerhouse of lean protein, perfect for muscle repair and keeping you full longer. Penne pasta, especially if you opt for whole wheat, delivers complex carbs that fuel your day. Garlic isn’t just for flavor—hello, immune boost and heart health!

The use of olive oil adds a dose of healthy fats, and Parmesan gives you a calcium kick. Yes, it’s creamy and indulgent, but making it at home beats takeout any day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Nothing ruins a pasta dish faster than mushy noodles. Stick to al dente or just a bit under — it’ll cook more when combined with the sauce.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic goes from fragrant to bitter in seconds.

  Keep an eye on that pan!

• Skipping seasoning: Pasta and chicken love salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—or your dish will taste bland.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: If it’s too watery, your pasta will be soggy, not saucy. Patience, my friend.

Mix It Up

Bored of the classic?

No problem. Here’s how to switch it up without breaking a sweat:

• Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey. Freshen things with a different protein source.
• Add veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Sneak in some greens for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Try a different cheese: Mozzarella or pecorino offers unique creamy twists.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to better match dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure even cooking and avoid a rubbery texture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Easy Chicken Penne Pasta?

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk, cream, or broth. Microwaving works too, but watch out for uneven heating and dryness.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely!

Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein. The sauce still shines on its own.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, cook everything separately and combine just before eating to keep textures fresh. Pasta can get soggy if left in sauce too long.

What’s the secret to making the sauce creamy without using heavy cream?

Try substituting coconut milk or half-and-half.

You can also make a simple white sauce with a roux (butter and flour) and milk for a lighter version.

My Take

Look, I’ve had my fair share of “easy” dinners that ended up more complicated than my taxes. But Easy Chicken Penne Pasta is one of those rare gems that really delivers on all fronts: fast, flavorful, and forgiving. It’s a recipe that doesn’t just fill your belly but feels like a high-five from your kitchen.

Whether you’re impressing guests or just surviving a busy weeknight, this pasta has got your back. Plus, the customization options mean it’ll never get stale. So, next time you’re wondering what to cook, remember this gem—your taste buds will thank you.