Name: Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless and skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/2 pound penne pasta (2 cups); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth (or reserved hot pasta water); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste); 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 5 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This comforting meal combines tender chicken breasts with perfectly cooked penne pasta, all bathed in a rich, luscious sauce that’s silky from the heavy cream and sharp notes of Parmesan cheese. Each bite bursts with savory flavor and just the right texture, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a special treat to share with loved ones. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black skillet with a thick, creamy white sauce covering the entire inside surface, showing slight uneven texture and small bubbles, placed on a white marbled surface. The sauce has a smooth top with some light cream-colored specks throughout. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering the flavor, texture, and color that make this dish shine. The list is refreshingly simple, but each component brings something special to the table, ensuring a well-balanced and delicious outcome.

2 boneless and skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean protein that absorbs flavors beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and pasta water to enhance all flavors.
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle, comforting hint of spice.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden-brown crust without sticking.
1/2 pound penne pasta (2 cups): The ideal pasta shape for holding that creamy sauce in every bite.
2 tablespoons butter: Infuses the sauce with richness and helps cook the garlic delicately.
2 tablespoons garlic, minced: Delivers a fragrant and savory punch that wakes up the taste buds.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent to create the perfect creamy sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient in the sauce, providing incredible silkiness and indulgence.
1/2 cup chicken broth (or reserved hot pasta water): Adds depth and a hint of savory warmth to the sauce.
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Delivers sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances the sauce perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste): Enhances the overall seasoning of the dish.
1 teaspoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of fresh color and a mild herbal note.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the penne pasta and cook until just al dente, which means it should be tender but still a little firm to the bite, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the hot pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid can help your sauce cling beautifully to the pasta if you opt not to use chicken broth.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial because moisture on the chicken’s surface can interfere with proper searing. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering and hot. Carefully place the chicken in the pan, searing it for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until beautifully golden brown and fully cooked through. Slice the chicken into 1/2-inch strips, then cover it with aluminum foil to keep it moist and warm.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Roux

In the very same skillet (no need to wash it yet — those browned bits pack tons of flavor), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about one minute, making your kitchen smell incredible. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth paste. This roux will be the foundation for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream followed by the chicken broth (or that reserved pasta water). Stir well to combine, then add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep the heat at medium and allow the sauce to gently simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to a luscious consistency. Taste and season with salt and pepper until the flavor sings just right.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta with Sauce

Toss the sliced chicken and cooked penne pasta back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Use tongs or a large spoon to mix everything thoroughly so each piece of pasta and chicken is evenly coated in that velvety sauce. Once everything is warmed through, it’s ready to be plated and garnished.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe

A close-up view of a white creamy pasta dish served in a black pan with two handles, featuring penne pasta coated in a smooth white sauce. Mixed in are pieces of grilled light brown chicken with some darker golden edges, and small green parsley leaves scattered across the top. The texture shows creamy and slightly thick sauce covering the pasta evenly. A shiny gold fork rests on the right side, partially submerged in the pasta. The background is a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top adds not just a splash of vibrant green color but also a mild, fresh aroma that perfectly complements the rich creaminess of the dish. For an extra touch of indulgence, a dusting of additional Parmesan cheese right before serving can’t be beat.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, which helps cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also make fantastic companions, perfect for mopping up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a smart twist, serve the Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins or shallow bowls to encourage generous portioning. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch or a few cherry tomatoes halved on top for pops of color and a juicy burst.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and you might, if you’re lucky), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta, though the texture might change slightly because of the cream sauce. To freeze, cool the dish completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce’s silky texture if it seems too thick. Microwaving is also convenient—just cover the dish to avoid drying out and stop to stir halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of penne?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle would work wonderfully too. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta packaging.

Is there a lighter version of the Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind it will be less rich and creamy. Adding a bit of cream cheese can help maintain some of the silky texture.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. Adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables can build flavor and keep it hearty.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly?

Chicken breasts are fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when sliced. Searing the chicken until golden brown on both sides helps lock in juices for moist bites.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying the pasta?

Reheat slowly and gently, either on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk, or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally. This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents the pasta from drying out.

Final Thoughts

I can’t encourage you enough to give this Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe a try. It’s straightforward, packed with comfort, and absolutely crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it delivers that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and satisfying flavors every single time. Trust me, once it’s on your table, it will become a quick go-to for cozy dinners that never disappoint.