why make this recipe
This Chicken Penne Pasta is quick, creamy, and filling. It uses simple ingredients and cooks fast. It is great for weeknights or a simple dinner with friends.
introduction
This dish mixes penne pasta with shredded chicken in a creamy Parmesan sauce. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. If you need ideas for using rotisserie chicken, see this 25 ways to use rotisserie chicken. The recipe is easy and uses common pantry items.
how to make Chicken Penne Pasta
Follow the steps below. Work in order and keep the sauce warm while you toss the pasta.
Ingredients :
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For faster prep or other simple chicken ideas, check quick chicken meals.
Directions :
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
- Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, combining it well with the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
how to serve Chicken Penne Pasta
Serve it hot in shallow bowls. Add extra Parmesan on top. A side salad or steamed vegetables go well with it. You can also serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
how to store Chicken Penne Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature, then put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce is thick. You can freeze it for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Chicken Penne Pasta
- Use warm cream and add cheese slowly to avoid clumps.
- Shred chicken finely so it mixes evenly.
- Do not overcook the pasta; cook until just tender.
- If sauce is too thin, simmer a little longer. If too thick, add a splash of milk.
- For a crisp chicken finish, try these air fryer chicken tips.
variation (if any)
- Add spinach or peas for color and nutrition.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Swap penne for fusilli, rigatoni, or any short pasta.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat or mushrooms for earthiness.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes. Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works great. Just shred it and warm in the sauce.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Parmesan gives the best flavor, but you can mix in Romano or Asiago.
Q: Is there a low-fat option?
A: Use half-and-half or milk and reduce the cheese to lower fat. The sauce will be thinner.
Q: How long does the sauce take to thicken?
A: A few minutes once the cheese is added. Stir until smooth and slightly thick.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes. Add peas, spinach, or mushrooms. Sauté them before adding the chicken.
Conclusion
For another creamy version and extra tips, see this full recipe: Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta {Easy} – Two Peas & Their Pod.
Print
Chicken Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
This Chicken Penne Pasta is quick, creamy, and filling, perfect for weeknights or a simple dinner with friends.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
- Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, combining it well with the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a crisp chicken finish, try air fryer chicken tips. Use warm cream and add cheese slowly to avoid clumps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken, pasta, creamy, easy recipe, weeknight dinner