How to Make Perfectly Creamy Chicken Penne Every Time! #Pasta #Recipe
Pasta dishes are a timeless classic in the culinary world, and few dishes rival the comfort and satisfaction of a perfectly creamy chicken penne. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken with al dente penne pasta, enveloped in a rich and luscious sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, mastering this recipe will leave your friends and family begging for seconds. Here’s how to make perfectly creamy chicken penne every time!
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
For the Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup spinach (optional for color and nutrition)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until they are golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir well for a rich, velvety base.
- Add Cheese: Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Incorporate Spinach: If desired, fold in the spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.
Step 4: Combine
- Add Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Adjust Taste: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, with additional salt, pepper, or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Serve the creamy chicken penne hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if you like.
- Pair with Bread: Pair this dish with crusty garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Tips for Perfection
- Chicken Variants: For added flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours with garlic, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can substitute half and half or use low-fat cream, although this will slightly change the richness of the sauce.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for more variety and nutritional value.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then simply reheat and toss with fresh pasta for a quick meal.
Making a creamy chicken penne dish doesn’t have to be complicated! With the right ingredients and steps, you can create a pasta dish that is perfectly creamy, delicious, and satisfying every time. So gather your ingredients and get ready for a delightful culinary experience that will surely impress! Enjoy your delicious meal! 🍝
