The Coziest Chicken Penne Pasta You’ll Ever Make

There’s something about a bowl of creamy, garlicky chicken penne pasta that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was one of those evenings when the rain tapped gently against the kitchen window, and all I wanted was something comforting yet effortless. This recipe became my go-to, the kind of meal that feels fancy but comes together in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday dinner, this dish never fails to delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients, and let’s turn them into something magical:

8 oz penne pasta – The ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender and quick-cooking, but you could also use thighs for extra juiciness.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Because what’s pasta without garlic? (Feel free to add an extra clove if you’re a garlic lover like me.)
1 cup heavy cream – This creates the luscious, velvety sauce we all crave.

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is best—it melts so much smoother than pre-shredded.
1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
1 tsp Italian seasoning – A little blend of herbs goes a long way.

Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
Fresh basil or parsley (optional) – A sprinkle of green adds freshness and a pop of color.

Let’s Get Cooking

Now, let’s walk through this step by step—I promise it’s as easy as it is delicious.

Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid is gold for adjusting the sauce later.
Sear the chicken. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Make the sauce. In the same skillet (don’t wash it—those browned bits add flavor!), lower the heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine with the garlic. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Tip: If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. The starch helps bind everything together beautifully.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

This chicken penne pasta recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Protein swap: Not a fan of chicken? Try shrimp, Italian sausage, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Creamy version: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer sauce.
Veggie boost: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers in the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Cheese options: While Parmesan is classic, pecorino romano or asiago make delicious alternatives.
Penne alternatives: Rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle all work beautifully with this recipe.

What to Serve With Chicken Penne Pasta

This hearty pasta dish stands well on its own, but here are some perfect pairings:

A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Garlic bread or crusty Italian loaf
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini

A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers taste just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to keep them at their best:

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop to revive the sauce.
Freezing: While possible, the texture of the pasta may change slightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately, then combine when ready to serve for best texture.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work in a pinch – use 1 teaspoon dried for every tablespoon fresh called for in the recipe.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?

Omit the red pepper flakes entirely or reduce to just a pinch if you prefer milder flavors.

A Cozy Final Thought

There’s something so comforting about a steaming bowl of chicken penne pasta – the way the sauce clings to every noodle, the tender bites of chicken, and that final sprinkle of Parmesan that ties it all together. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation. The best part? Every forkful tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, when really, this delicious dish comes together in no time at all. Happy cooking!

Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta

Author: Trusted Blog

Print Recipe

Description

A rich and creamy pasta dish with tender chicken and penne, perfect for a comforting meal.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream, then stir in Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.

Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.

Best Chicken Penne Pasta – Quick and Easy Recipe