Creamy Penne with Chicken

This one-pan chicken penne transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into restaurant-worthy meals without the fuss. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy parmesan sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly in just 30 minutes.

I first created this pasta when my sister dropped by unexpectedly for dinner. With just pantry staples and some chicken from the fridge, this dish came together so beautifully that it's now requested at every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta creates the perfect vessel for catching the creamy sauce
• Boneless chicken breast provides lean protein and satisfying texture
• Fresh asparagus adds vibrant color and nutritional value
• Mushrooms create a wonderful earthy depth to the dish
• Heavy cream forms the luxurious base of our sauce
• Parmesan cheese brings that umami richness that ties everything together
• Italian seasoning infuses aromatic herbs throughout the dish
• Garlic powder and onion powder create a flavor foundation for the chicken
• Red pepper flakes optional but add a gentle warmth to balance the cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil penne in generously salted water until al dente following package directions. The pasta should have a slight bite as it will continue cooking briefly when combined with the sauce. Reserve about a quarter cup of pasta water before draining to help bind the sauce if needed.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Season the chicken pieces thoroughly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken without moving too frequently to develop a golden crust, about 6 minutes total. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F internally and has no pink remaining.

Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same pan with all those flavorful chicken bits, add a touch more oil and the butter. The mushrooms will initially absorb the fat but will release moisture as they cook. Allow them to brown slightly before adding the asparagus. The asparagus should remain vibrant green with just a slight tenderness.

Add Garlic and Build the Sauce

Add fresh minced garlic to the vegetables and stir constantly for about 30 seconds. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown which would create bitterness. Immediately pour in the cream and broth, scraping any browned bits from the pan bottom. This deglazing step incorporates all the developed flavors into your sauce.

Melt the Cheese and Thicken

Reduce heat to medium low and gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. The Italian seasoning should be crushed slightly between your fingers as you add it to release the essential oils. Allow the sauce to gently bubble until it coats the back of a spoon.

Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the pan along with the drained pasta. Gently fold everything together using a wooden spoon or tongs until each piece of pasta is coated with sauce. Allow the pasta to simmer in the sauce for about 2 minutes, during which it will absorb flavors and the sauce will further thicken.

Garnish and Serve

Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley which adds brightness both visually and in flavor. Serve immediately in warmed bowls for the best experience.

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My absolute favorite aspect of this dish is how the Parmesan melts into the cream creating pockets of savory intensity throughout. My husband who normally dislikes asparagus cleans his plate every time I make this, which speaks volumes about how the flavors come together.

Vegetable Variations

While asparagus and mushrooms create a classic pairing for this dish, the recipe works beautifully with seasonal substitutions. In summer, try adding cherry tomatoes and zucchini which will brighten the dish. Fall calls for butternut squash cubes and kale which add heartiness. Winter is perfect for incorporating Brussels sprouts and leeks for depth. Just adjust cooking times according to vegetable density, adding harder vegetables earlier and quick cooking ones toward the end.

Make Ahead Tips

This pasta dish actually improves overnight as flavors meld together. To prepare ahead, cook everything except the pasta and store the chicken and sauce mixture separately. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta and combine with the reheated sauce. Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to refresh the sauce consistency. For meal prep, portion into individual containers for quick lunches that reheat beautifully in the microwave with just a touch of water to revive the sauce.

Scaling For A Crowd

This recipe doubles or triples beautifully for entertaining. When cooking for a crowd, consider searing the chicken in batches to maintain proper browning. For the best presentation at parties, keep the pasta slightly underdone initially so it won't become soggy when held in a warm serving dish. Set up a garnish station with extra Parmesan shavings, fresh herbs, and toasted pine nuts so guests can customize their portions. The dish holds well in a low oven or chafing dish for up to an hour if needed.

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Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I use other vegetables in this chicken penne dish?

Absolutely! While asparagus and mushrooms pair beautifully with the creamy sauce, you can substitute or add vegetables like spinach, peas, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as some vegetables cook faster than others.

→ How can I make this one-pan pasta dish lighter?

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk mixed with a little cornstarch for the heavy cream. You can also use Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess while reducing fat. Consider using whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.

→ Can I make this chicken penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy texture, as pasta tends to absorb sauce when stored.

→ What protein can I substitute for chicken?

This versatile dish works well with several protein alternatives. Try using shrimp (cook for less time than chicken), Italian sausage, or smoked salmon for different flavor profiles. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based chicken substitutes or simply increase the mushrooms and add white beans.

→ Can I freeze this creamy pasta dish?

Cream-based pasta dishes can separate when frozen and thawed. If you need to freeze it, prepare everything except the cream sauce, freeze, then make the fresh sauce when reheating. Alternatively, freeze in individual portions and reheat gently with additional cream to restore the texture.

→ What wines pair well with this creamy chicken pasta?

This rich, creamy pasta pairs beautifully with medium-bodied white wines. Try a Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir or Chianti would complement the dish without overwhelming the delicate flavors.