Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight as we bring you the creamiest, most flavorful chicken and penne pasta recipes that will leave you wanting more! With 20 mouth-watering dishes to choose from, you’ll never tire of this classic comfort food combination. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun, lemon butter to sun-dried tomato and spinach, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the best of chicken and penne pasta.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a range of flavors and techniques that will take your pasta game to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to impress. So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Penne Pasta
This rich and satisfying dish combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tender chicken with penne pasta, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce.
7. Serve the chicken over the penne pasta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Penne Pasta
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy twist on classic chicken pasta. Crispy cajun chicken, tossed with penne pasta, garlic, and herbs, is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in Cajun seasoning and paprika. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with spice mixture.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Lemon Butter Chicken and Penne Pasta
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this vibrant Lemon Butter Chicken and Penne Pasta recipe. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a zesty lemon butter sauce come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken breasts; cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Stir in lemon juice and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the lemon butter sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Chicken Penne
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach to the skillet. Cook until spinach has wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Alfredo Chicken and Penne Pasta Bake
A rich and creamy Alfredo sauce coats tender chicken and penne pasta in this satisfying baked dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
5. Stir in Alfredo sauce and bring to a simmer. Combine with cooked penne pasta.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Penne Pasta with Pine Nuts
This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of pesto, chicken, and penne pasta with the added crunch of toasted pine nuts. The result is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
4. Add pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken.
5. Toss cooked penne pasta with the chicken and pesto mixture.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese, parsley, and toasted pine nuts.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken and Penne Pasta Salad
A spicy twist on classic pasta salad, this Buffalo chicken and penne pasta salad combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with creamy ranch dressing and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken breast, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until well coated.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and blue cheese to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked penne pasta to the bowl and toss until the pasta is well coated with the buffalo chicken mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Chicken Penne Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and savory dish featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic thyme. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, mushrooms, and garlic in butter until cooked through.
3. Add white wine and chicken broth; simmer for 5 minutes or until liquid is reduced by half.
4. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon Ranch Chicken and Penne Pasta
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the tanginess of ranch seasoning, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp ranch seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and crumbled bacon over medium-high heat until cooked through.
3. Add mixed greens, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture in a serving dish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken and Penne Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines juicy chicken, flavorful tomatoes, and aromatic basil with al dente penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until tomatoes start to release their juices.
5. Stir in chopped basil and cooked chicken. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta with the tomato-basil mixture. Toss to coat, then top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Penne Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the tender bite of chicken, all wrapped up in a delicious broccoli-infused sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large serving dish. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Penne Pasta
This flavorful and colorful dish combines juicy chicken with penne pasta, crunchy Kalamata olives, and a rich Mediterranean-inspired sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano.
6. Serve chicken atop pasta with sauce spooned over the top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Penne Pasta with Spinach
Quick and delicious, this one-pot pasta dish is a perfect weeknight meal. With chicken, penne pasta, spinach, and a creamy sauce, it’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, add the chicken, onion, garlic, and basil. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the chicken with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Penne Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this sweet and savory combination of chicken, penne pasta, and a rich balsamic glaze. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low and add sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey. Pour the glaze over the onions and garlic in the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Add chicken back to the skillet and coat with the balsamic glaze. Serve with cooked penne pasta.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Penne Pasta Casserole
This comforting casserole combines cooked chicken, penne pasta, and a rich cheesy sauce for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a large skillet, combine cooked chicken, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter and heavy cream.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and cheese sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with additional cheddar cheese (optional) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Penne Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the richness of garlic butter sauce with the tender flavor of chicken and penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper.
7. Add cooked penne pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated.
8. Return chicken to the skillet and toss with pasta and garlic butter sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Penne Pasta with Roasted Red Peppers
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of roasted red peppers, chicken, and penne pasta for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted (see note)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Toss chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add roasted red peppers and chicken broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted chicken, and pepper sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Chicken and Penne Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with the rich flavor of chicken, all wrapped up in a comforting penne pasta bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup diced jalapeños
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken breast until browned and cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the mixture to the cooked chicken and stir until combined.
6. Combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and chicken mixture in a large serving dish.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Penne Pasta in Creamy Tomato Sauce
This classic comfort food recipe combines tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich creamy tomato sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 1-2 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta, chicken, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Penne Pasta with Feta Cheese
A flavorful and refreshing pasta dish that combines the goodness of herby chicken, tangy feta cheese, and al dente penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. Grill or bake the marinated chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine.
6. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the pasta mixture. Top with crumbled feta cheese and grated Parmesan (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food – creamy chicken and penne pasta! This collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. From classic flavors like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Penne Pasta to spicy twists like Spicy Cajun Chicken and Penne Pasta, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include Lemon Butter Chicken and Penne Pasta, Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Chicken Penne, and many more. Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure with these creamy chicken and penne pasta recipes!
