Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that combines the flavors of Italy with the protein-packed goodness of chicken? Look no further! Penne pasta is a classic choice for any pasta dish, and when paired with juicy chicken, it’s a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering penne pasta recipes that feature chicken as the star of the show.
From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun chicken, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting baked pasta dish or a light and zesty summer-inspired meal, we’ve got you covered. So grab your penne pasta and let’s get cooking!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tender chicken with penne pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 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. Drain and set aside.
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 chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add cooked penne pasta, chicken, and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta
A flavorful and spicy twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of penne pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 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 skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and green onions. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with Cajun mixture.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Penne with Spinach
Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty and refreshing pasta dish, featuring succulent chicken, tangy lemon, and a burst of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 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; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken mixture.
6. Serve hot, topped with spinach leaves and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Penne
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with juicy chicken and al dente penne pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
5. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Penne Pasta Bake
A spicy twist on classic pasta bakes, this Buffalo chicken penne dish combines the flavors of buffalo wings with creamy pasta and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and stir in buffalo wing sauce.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Penne with Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of creamy pesto sauce, tender chicken, and sweet cherry tomatoes with al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breast pieces over medium-high heat until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add pesto sauce to the same skillet and stir to combine with any remaining chicken juices.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta, pesto sauce mixture, and cooked chicken in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Alfredo Chicken Penne with Broccoli
Satisfy your cravings with this comforting and flavorful Alfredo-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, broccoli, and penne pasta in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Add broccoli to the pan and cook until tender (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta, chicken, and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Mushroom Penne
Savor a comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the richness of chicken, mushrooms, and penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and simmer until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced slightly, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Penne with Olives
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, combining the richness of chicken, olives, and Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, green olives, Kalamata olives, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Penne Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines cooked chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich cheese sauce with penne noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of penne pasta
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook until softened.
5. Add the chicken breast pieces to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
6. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
7. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously, until the sauce thickens.
8. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
9. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and crispy bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Penne
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this creamy and aromatic penne dish, featuring succulent chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked penne pasta
– 2 tbsp peanut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, cumin, curry powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, whisk together peanut butter, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cooked penne pasta and chopped peanuts. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Penne with Mozzarella
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella cheese with a hint of basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cherry tomatoes, and basil to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake for 10-12 minutes or until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Penne Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful dish, featuring tender chicken, tangy balsamic glaze, and al dente penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 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 heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in balsamic glaze, chicken broth, and dried basil. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with the glaze.
7. Serve hot over cooked penne pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Penne with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish that combines tender chicken, roasted red peppers, and creamy penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken with 1 tbsp 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 blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Add remaining olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley (if using) to the blended sauce. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce until well combined.
6. Slice roasted chicken into strips and toss with the pasta mixture.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Asparagus
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter sauce with the comfort of penne pasta, tender chicken, and crisp asparagus. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 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, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from skillet, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream, stir to combine with garlic, then add cooked pasta, chicken, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve chicken penne mixture topped with roasted asparagus and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican-Style Chicken Penne with Cilantro
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico and Italy to create a unique and delicious dish. Spicy chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh cilantro come together in a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-12 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Top with chopped cilantro and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Penne Primavera with Zucchini
This light and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for warm weather. A medley of spring vegetables, chicken, and penne pasta come together in a creamy sauce, making it an ideal option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, carrots)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced zucchinis and mixed spring vegetables. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, white wine (if using), chicken broth, and basil to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and Parmesan cheese (if using) to the skillet. Toss to coat with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Penne Pasta
Add a smoky twist to classic chicken pasta with this bold and flavorful recipe. Spicy chipotle peppers bring depth to the dish, while tender chicken and penne pasta make it a satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 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. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add diced onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Stir in smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine cooked chicken and pasta in a large bowl. Toss with the chipotle mixture until well coated.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouthwatering penne pasta recipes that combine the flavors of chicken and Italy. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun, these dishes offer a variety of flavor profiles to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy classic combinations like lemon herb with spinach or Mediterranean with olives, or try bold twists like buffalo chicken bake or Thai peanut chicken. Each recipe is carefully crafted with succulent chicken, flavorful sauces, and tender pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something new and exciting, this collection has a penne pasta dish that’s sure to delight.
