Name: Chicken Penne Pasta with Bruschetta Topping and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups grape tomatoes, chopped; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; 10 ounces penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 shallot, diced; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons flour; 1¼ cups chicken broth (divided as 1 cup + 1/4 cup); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 1 review

There is something truly magical about this Chicken Penne Pasta with Bruschetta Topping and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe. It perfectly combines tender pieces of chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce, all brightened up by the fresh, tangy bruschetta topping. This dish brings together a harmony of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and elegantly fresh, making it a guaranteed favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close to your heart forever.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black frying pan placed on a wooden board with cooked light brown chicken pieces inside. A wooden spoon with a light beige handle is resting in the pan, stirring the chicken pieces. To the left of the pan, there is a white bowl filled with plain cooked penne pasta. To the right of the pan, there is another white bowl with a colorful mix of chopped red tomatoes and herbs. The background surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Chicken Penne Pasta with Bruschetta Topping and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Each ingredient is simple but plays a crucial role, whether it’s building depth, adding freshness, or lending that perfect creamy texture.

Grape tomatoes: Chopped for a sweet and juicy burst in the bruschetta topping.
Fresh basil: Chopped to add aromatic, herbaceous notes that brighten the dish.
Olive oil: Used in both the bruschetta and for cooking the chicken, bringing richness and helping meld the flavors.
Balsamic vinegar: A tablespoon adds a slight tang and subtle sweetness to the bruschetta.
Garlic: Minced and used generously for that warm, savory foundation.
Kosher salt and black pepper: To season everything perfectly at various steps.
Penne pasta: The perfect hearty pasta shape that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to keep every bite tender and juicy.
Unsalted butter: For making the silky, flavorful sauce base.
Shallot: Diced and sautéed to add subtle sweetness and complexity.
Flour: Helps thicken the sauce for that perfect creamy consistency.
Chicken broth: Adds savory depth to the sauce.
Heavy cream: The secret to achieving the lush, velvety sauce that makes this dish irresistible.
Italian seasoning: A blend that brings classic herb flavors into the creamy sauce.
Crushed red pepper: Just a touch to give the sauce a gentle kick of heat.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for a sharp, nutty finish mixed into the sauce and sprinkled on top.

How to Make Chicken Penne Pasta with Bruschetta Topping and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bruschetta Topping

Start by combining the chopped grape tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. This bruschetta topping is the fresh highlight of the dish, bringing bright acidity and herbaceousness that contrast perfectly with the creamy sauce. Let this mixture sit and marinate while you move on to the rest of the dish—this resting step helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cooking it until just al dente is key — this texture will hold up wonderfully when tossed with the sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve a little pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, seasoning with a little salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked through with a lovely golden color on the edges. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate to keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant and slightly softened. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, then slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Let this mixture simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly — this will become your sauce base.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Seasonings

Pour in the heavy cream along with the additional chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer on medium-low heat, and then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This step turns your sauce into that indulgently creamy, flavorful coating your pasta and chicken will soak up.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Chicken with Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta back into the skillet with the sauce and stir gently to fully coat each piece of pasta. Return the cooked chicken to the pan as well, mixing everything together until uniformly combined. This blend ensures every bite has the perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, then remove from heat.

Step 7: Serve with Bruschetta Topping

Spoon the creamy chicken penne pasta onto plates or bowls, then generously add the fresh bruschetta topping right on top. Finish each serving with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to add a sharp, savory edge that complements both the sauce and the fresh tomatoes. Serve immediately to enjoy all the vibrant textures and flavors at their best.

How to Serve Chicken Penne Pasta with Bruschetta Topping and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe

The image shows a bowl of creamy pasta with pieces of chicken and diced red tomatoes on top. The pasta is penne, coated in a smooth, light-colored sauce, filling the white bowl halfway. The chicken pieces are small and mixed in with the pasta, while the tomatoes sit on the top, adding bright red color. Small green herbs are scattered over the dish, and some black pepper or seasoning is sprinkled lightly. A fork and spoon rest inside the bowl on the left side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a piece of bread on the right and a small bowl with grated cheese in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While freshly grated Parmesan and the tomato-basil bruschetta are essential garnishes, feel free to add a few fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an elegant touch. A few cracks of black pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also enhance the flavor if you love a little extra zing.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple, crisp side salads like mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices also complement the creamy sauce perfectly, giving you a little crunch and a chance to mop up any sauce that lingers on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the pasta in warmed shallow bowls with the bruschetta topping artfully spooned over in the center. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers to elevate the presentation. You can also plate individual portions in small ramekins for a charming, rustic appeal at a dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken Penne Pasta with Bruschetta Topping and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the bruschetta topping separate if possible to prevent it from making the pasta soggy.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the pasta and sauce (without the bruschetta topping) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Reheat the bruschetta topping separately and add fresh to maintain its bright flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding onto the creamy Parmesan sauce, you can swap it with rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli for a slightly different texture and look.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of butter to mimic the richness of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly lighter and less thick.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian twist that still pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and bruschetta topping.

How spicy is the sauce?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth but are not overpowering. You can adjust the amount to fit your spice preference or leave it out entirely for a milder dish.

Can I prepare the bruschetta topping in advance?

Definitely. The bruschetta topping actually tastes better after sitting for at least 30 minutes as the flavors meld together. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Penne Pasta with Bruschetta Topping and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe offers an extraordinary balance of comforting creaminess and fresh brightness that will keep you coming back for more. It’s a wonderful way to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s pure pasta perfection!