Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this exquisite Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta, a dish that effortlessly brings gourmet flavors to your dinner table in just 30 minutes! Featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and savory sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a light yet richly flavored cream sauce, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite.
Searching for more delectable pasta recipes to elevate your weeknight meals? Explore our popular Tuscan Chicken Pasta, the classic Chicken Pasta, or the ever-popular Chicken Parmesan Pasta for more culinary inspiration.
Experience the Irresistible Charm of Chicken Penne Pasta
For seven years, during my time working at an upscale restaurant, one dish consistently remained on the menu, unshaken by countless menu refreshes: their creamy penne pasta bake. The reason for its enduring popularity was crystal clear: people simply couldn’t get enough of its heartwarming, utterly delicious appeal. Each bite offered a luxurious creaminess that left diners craving more.
This recipe is a loving homage to that timeless favorite, but with a modern, lighter twist. Instead of relying on generous amounts of heavy cream and butter, we craft a beautifully balanced, lighter cream sauce using equal parts rich chicken broth and wholesome milk. The result is a sauce that delivers all the incredible flavor and satisfying texture you desire, without the heaviness of traditional cream-based dishes. I’ve meticulously experimented and refined this sauce until it achieved that irresistible, “gotta-have-it” taste—it’s surprisingly simple, yet profoundly delicious! Prepare to dive into a fuss-free pasta dish that has truly stood the test of time, promising comfort and joy in every forkful.
Quick Culinary Fact
The word “Penne” literally translates from Italian to “pens” or “quills,” a fitting name derived from its distinctive diagonal cut, which resembles the nib of an old-fashioned fountain pen. This shape isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s designed to expertly capture and hold creamy sauces, ensuring every mouthful is bursting with flavor.
Key Ingredients for Your Delicious Chicken Penne Pasta
Crafting this savory chicken penne pasta dish begins with selecting the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and comforting texture that make this recipe so special. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need, along with a few tips to ensure your dish is nothing short of spectacular:
- Penne Pasta: Opt for a good quality penne. The ridged surface and tubular shape are perfect for cradling the creamy sauce. For optimal texture, cook the pasta just shy of al dente—about 1 minute less than the package instructions. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the hot sauce, ensuring a pleasant bite.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: These concentrated bursts of flavor add a wonderful tang and sweetness. Always choose sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, as the infused oil is a secret weapon for sautéing your vegetables, imparting an incredible depth of flavor right from the start. Roughly chop them for even distribution throughout the pasta.
- Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add an earthy, umami richness to the dish. Sauté them until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown caramelization. This extra step develops their flavor significantly and adds a satisfying texture contrast. Cremini (baby bella) or white button mushrooms work wonderfully here.
- Cooked Chicken: Convenience is key! This recipe is ideal for using up leftover cooked chicken. Shredded rotisserie chicken or diced grilled chicken breast (try our grilled chicken marinade recipe for extra flavor) makes prep incredibly simple and fast, getting dinner on the table even quicker.
- Baby Spinach: A fantastic way to sneak in some greens! Baby spinach wilts quickly into the warm sauce, adding a delicate texture and a nutritional boost without overpowering the other flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: The backbone of our rich sauce. For unparalleled flavor and a smooth, creamy texture, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty and diminish the taste. A wedge of good quality Parmesan is worth the effort!
- Parmesan Sauce Ingredients:
- Unsalted Butter & Minced Garlic: The foundation of flavor for our sauce. Butter provides richness, and freshly minced garlic offers aromatic depth.
- White Flour: Used to create a roux, which thickens the sauce beautifully. Whisk it constantly with the melted butter to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth base.
- Chicken Stock & Milk: This balanced combination replaces heavy cream, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying creamy texture. Use good quality chicken stock for robust flavor and whole milk for optimal richness.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, it infuses the sauce with classic Mediterranean warmth.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste. Don’t be shy about tasting and adjusting!
To ensure a perfectly smooth and lump-free sauce, remember to whisk continuously as you incorporate the flour and gradually add the liquids. This technique is crucial for achieving that desirable silky consistency.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta
Making this delightful Chicken Penne Pasta is a straightforward process, designed for efficiency without compromising on flavor. Follow these simple steps to bring this restaurant-quality dish to your own kitchen:
- Prepare the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package directions, but remove it from the heat precisely one minute before the recommended cooking time. This ensures your pasta remains perfectly al dente, ready to absorb the luscious sauce without becoming overcooked. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
- Sauté Mushrooms and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Heat a large, sturdy pan over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of the flavorful oil from your jar of sun-dried tomatoes. Once the oil shimmers, add the thinly sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their moisture. Incorporate the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and beautifully golden brown. Remove the sautéed vegetables from the pan and transfer them to a plate, reserving them for later.
- Initiate the Creamy Sauce Base: Using the very same pan (no need to clean it, those bits of flavor are gold!), increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Add another tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil along with the unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds, or until it becomes wonderfully fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the butter-garlic mixture. Immediately begin to whisk vigorously and continuously for 1 minute. This crucial step creates a roux, ensuring your sauce will be smooth and free of lumps.
- Finish the Silky Sauce: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to combine it smoothly with the roux. Follow with the milk, again whisking until thoroughly incorporated. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then promptly reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the sauce to simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency – typically about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the Italian seasoning and 5 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. We recommend starting with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, then adjusting as needed.
- Combine All Ingredients: Once the Parmesan cheese has melted into the sauce and it has reached its optimal thickness, return the cooked pasta, sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, diced cooked chicken, and fresh baby spinach to the pan. Toss all the ingredients gently to ensure everything is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce. Continue to cook over medium heat for 1-3 minutes, just long enough for the spinach to wilt and for all components to be heated through. Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese over the entire dish.
- Serve Immediately: Give the pasta a final stir to incorporate the last sprinkle of cheese, then serve this magnificent Chicken Penne Pasta dish hot. Pasta is always best enjoyed the moment it comes off the heat, when the sauce is at its creamiest and the flavors are most vibrant. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or a dash of red pepper flakes if desired.
Featured Review
“This pasta dish was absolutely amazing! I love how easily I could sneak in those veggies, and even my pickiest eaters couldn’t tell with their mouths full of that yummy, creamy sauce! It’s definitely a new family favorite.”
– Jessica
Streamline Your Kitchen: Making Chicken Penne Pasta in One Pot
While our primary recipe outlines a method using two main vessels (one pot for pasta, one pan for sauce and combination), this delightful Chicken Penne Pasta can indeed be prepared using just one pot! This approach significantly reduces cleanup, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights, though it does add a slight extension to the cooking time. The magic of a one-pot meal lies in layering flavors and cooking components sequentially in the same vessel, allowing for a richer, more cohesive taste profile.
For the One-Pot Method: You’ll begin by cooking the penne pasta in a large pot until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about a cup of the starchy pasta water. In the very same pot (no need to wash!), you’ll then proceed to sauté your mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes until golden and fragrant. Once done, remove these flavorful vegetables and temporarily set them aside. Next, still in the same pot, you’ll melt your butter, sauté the garlic, and build the creamy Parmesan sauce from scratch, gradually adding the flour, chicken broth, and milk. Once the sauce has thickened beautifully, all the cooked ingredients—the al dente pasta, sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and pre-cooked chicken—are returned to the pot. Stir in the fresh spinach and allow everything to heat through and combine, letting the spinach wilt into the creamy goodness. A splash of the reserved pasta water can be added if the sauce needs thinning. The result is a wonderfully flavorful, perfectly combined dish with minimal cleanup, proving that delicious meals don’t always require an army of pots and pans.
Essential Tips for Perfect Chicken Penne Pasta Every Time
Achieving restaurant-quality Chicken Penne Pasta at home is entirely within reach with a few expert tips. These insights will help you master the dish and impress anyone who tastes it:
- Achieve Pasta Perfection – Al Dente is Key: The golden rule for any pasta dish! Avoid overcooking your penne. Cook it until it’s “al dente,” which literally means “to the tooth”—it should have a slight bite and firmness, not be soft or mushy. This typically means removing it from the boiling water a minute or two before the package’s recommended time. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce, so undercooking it just a touch is ideal for achieving that perfect texture. To understand more about what al dente truly means for your pasta, you can read here.
- Season Your Pasta Water Generously: This is a non-negotiable step for flavorful pasta. The water should be heavily salted, almost as salty as seawater. This imbues the pasta itself with flavor from the inside out, rather than relying solely on the sauce. It’s a simple step that makes a monumental difference in the overall taste of your dish.
- Invest in Quality Ingredients, Especially Cheese: Since Parmesan cheese is a primary flavor driver in this dish, opt for the best quality you can find. Freshly grated Parmesan offers a robust, nutty flavor and melts smoothly, providing a superior texture compared to pre-packaged varieties which can be drier and less flavorful due to anti-caking agents.
- The Power of Garnish: Don’t underestimate the finishing touches! A simple garnish can elevate both the visual appeal and the flavor profile of your pasta. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil, extra grated Parmesan, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick can transform your dish from delicious to extraordinary.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Throughout the cooking process, especially when making the sauce, taste and adjust the seasoning. Palates vary, and what’s perfectly seasoned for one might need a little more salt or pepper for another. This ensures the dish perfectly suits your preferences.
- Pre-Cooked Chicken for Speed: Utilizing leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-grilled chicken breast is a fantastic shortcut. It saves valuable time and simplifies the cooking process, making this an ideal weeknight meal.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Allow your mushrooms ample time to sauté and achieve a golden brown color. This caramelization develops their inherent umami flavor, adding a deeper dimension to the dish that quick-sautéing won’t achieve.
Perfect Pairings: What To Serve With Chicken Penne Pasta
This rich and flavorful Chicken Penne Pasta is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to a complete and balanced dining experience. Here are some complementary options that will beautifully round out your pasta night:
- Fresh Green Salads: A crisp, refreshing salad provides a delightful counterpoint to the creamy pasta.
- Garden Salad: A simple mix of fresh greens and your favorite vinaigrette offers a light and vibrant contrast.
- Italian Salad: Featuring robust flavors like olives, red onion, and perhaps some mozzarella, dressed in an zesty Italian dressing.
- Kale Cranberry Pecan Salad: A creamy and crunchy side dish that adds texture and a touch of sweetness.
- Artisan Breads for Dipping: Crusty bread is a must for soaking up every last drop of that incredible creamy sauce.
- Focaccia: Soft and airy with a crispy, olive-oil kissed crust, perfect for tearing and dipping.
- Drop Biscuits: Flaky and buttery, offering a different kind of comforting bread experience.
- French Bread: Light and soft on the inside with a deliciously crusty outside, ideal for mopping up sauce.
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing for any pasta dish, with its irresistible buttery, garlicky aroma.
- Roasted Vegetables: To add extra nutrition and a different texture, roasted vegetables are an excellent choice.
- Roasted Broccoli: Simple, healthy, and provides a lovely charred flavor that complements the pasta.
- Roasted Asparagus: A light and elegant green vegetable that roasts quickly.
- Roasted Green Beans: Tender-crisp and seasoned with garlic and herbs.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: For a light and refreshing end to your meal, a fruit salad is perfect.
- Try our favorite Fruit Salad Recipe or Creamy Fruit Salad for a sweet and vibrant finish.
Discover More Delicious Pasta Dishes
If you’ve enjoyed this Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic pasta recipes that cater to various tastes and occasions. Each offers a unique twist on the beloved comfort of pasta, promising delightful meals for every day of the week:
- Creamy Pesto Pasta with tender broccoli for a vibrant, herb-infused meal.
- Sweet Potato Pasta with savory sausage, offering a comforting and uniquely flavorful experience.
- Our quick and easy Fettuccine Alfredo, perfect for when you crave a classic creamy pasta dish in a hurry.
- The quickest Tuna Pasta with a bright lemon zest, an ideal light and zesty meal option.
- A refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad, tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing, perfect for picnics or light lunches.
Print Recipe
Chicken Penne Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large pan
Ingredients
- 2-1/2 cups penne pasta (8 ounces)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, coarsely chopped (plus oil from jar)
- 8 ounces mushrooms, thinly sliced (4 cups)
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken (prepared/leftover rotisserie or grilled)
- 2 cups baby spinach, packed
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken stock or broth
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 5 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water (1 tbsp salt per 12 cups water) to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, reducing cook time by 1 minute. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté sliced mushrooms for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes; cook 1-2 minutes more, until mushrooms are tender and golden. Remove contents to a plate and set aside.
- Using the same pan, increase heat to medium-high. Add another tbsp of sun-dried tomato oil and the unsalted butter. Once butter is melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk constantly for 1 minute to prevent lumps.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then milk, until combined. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low, stir in Italian seasoning and 5 tbsp Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste (e.g., 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper).
- Once cheese is melted and sauce is thickened, return cooked pasta, mushrooms, chicken, and spinach to the pan. Toss to coat in sauce and allow spinach to wilt (1-3 minutes) over medium heat. Stir until combined. Remove from heat and sprinkle 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese over the dish.
- Give everything a final stir and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Recipe Notes
Storage: Store any leftover Chicken Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to help refresh the sauce and bring back its creamy consistency.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.