Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe: A Simple & Delicious Weeknight Meal
This creamy chicken penne pasta recipe is a weeknight winner, perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and is packed with flavor. Let's dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. You can easily adjust the quantities depending on your needs.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for faster cooking.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a healthy base for sautéing.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aromatic richness.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and juiciness.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base for the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious and creamy texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and saltiness.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements chicken and pasta.
- 1/2 tsp dried basil: Another aromatic herb for a more complex flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to a delicious dish.
- 1 lb penne pasta: Your favorite pasta shape will also work.
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
Get started:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Don't forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining – it can help create a creamier sauce!
Prepare the chicken and sauce:
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Sauté the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine and serve:
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Add the chicken and pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for an Even Better Dish:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and flavor.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat.
- Use different cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or Asiago for a unique twist.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The sauce might thicken slightly upon reheating, so you might need to add a splash of milk or cream.
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