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A delectable close-up of a steaming plate of creamy chicken penne pasta, with tender chicken breast pieces nestled among al dente penne noodles, coated in a rich, velvety parmesan-infused sauce. Garnished with fresh Italian parsley and a sprinkle of grated parmesan, the dish is illuminated by warm, soft lighting, creating an inviting, mouthwatering scene. The pasta glistens, the chicken is perfectly cooked, and the composition draws the viewer's eye directly to the center of the frame, highlighting the dish's simple yet satisfying appeal.

Creamy Chicken Penne: Simple Pasta Recipe Ideas

Chicken Penne is simple, creamy, and perfect for pasta night. A satisfying meal ready in no time!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer or Main Course
Cuisine American / Italian-American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon seasoning salt
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2)
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ⅛ teaspoon red chili flakes
  • 2¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 14 oz 398 ml canned diced tomatoes with liquid
  • 12 oz 375 g penne pasta
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 cups loosely chopped spinach
  • ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season chicken breasts with seasoning salt and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden.
  • Add Aromatics: Add minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, salt, thyme, and red chili flakes to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Combine Base Ingredients: Pour in chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes (with liquid), and penne pasta. Bring to a simmer over high heat.
  • Cook Pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook until pasta is al dente, approximately 9-10 minutes.
  • Prepare Cream Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth.
  • Slice Chicken: Remove cooked chicken breasts from the skillet and slice them into strips.
  • Finish Sauce: Stir the cream mixture into the pasta in the skillet to thicken the sauce.
  • Add Final Ingredients: Return sliced chicken to the skillet. Add chopped spinach and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until spinach is wilted and cheese is melted.
  • Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
Keyword creamy chicken pasta, penne, one-pan dinner, quick meal, comfort food, family-friendly