If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen, you’ve stumbled upon a gem! This Chicken Penne Pasta recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch with its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant veggies. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dish will surely become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the details!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Chicken Penne Pasta is a keeper for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken, making it a fantastic way to utilize what you already have at home. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor, while the fresh spinach brings in a pop of color and nutrition. Plus, the creamy sauce is made from simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again!

What to Buy

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need:

2-1/2 cups penne pasta – The star of this dish, choose a good quality brand for the best texture.
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil – Coarsely chopped, plus a bit of oil from the jar for flavor.
8 ounces mushrooms – Thinly sliced; these will add an earthy note to the dish.
1 cup diced cooked chicken – Use prepared or leftovers, like rotisserie or grilled chicken.
2 cups baby spinach – Packed for a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – For that creamy, cheesy goodness.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter – The base for your creamy sauce.
1 teaspoon minced garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile.
3 tablespoons flour – For thickening the sauce.
1 cup chicken stock or broth – Use low-sodium for better control over salt levels.
1 cup milk – Whole milk will give the sauce a rich texture.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
5 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Because you can never have too much cheese!
Salt and pepper – To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
Fresh thyme – Optional, but a lovely herb to garnish your dish.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you start cooking, gather these tools:

Large pot – For boiling pasta.
Skillet – To make the creamy sauce and combine the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the pasta and sauce.
Colander – To drain the pasta.

Directions: Chicken Penne Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they are tender and golden, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Create a Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for another minute, ensuring the flour is well incorporated and slightly golden.

Step 4: Add Liquids

Slowly pour in the chicken stock and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, cooked chicken, and baby spinach. Mix until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Fold the cooked penne pasta into the sauce, mixing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese and fresh thyme if desired.

International Equivalents

For those cooking from different countries, here are some equivalents:

Pasta: 250 grams penne pasta
Sun-dried tomatoes: 125 ml jar
Chicken stock: 240 ml chicken stock
Milk: 240 ml milk

What I Learned Testing

During my testing of this Chicken Penne Pasta recipe, here are some key takeaways:

The quality of the chicken greatly impacts the flavor, so using leftover grilled chicken can enhance the overall taste.
Don’t skimp on the sun-dried tomatoes; their flavor is essential in this dish.
Adjust the thickness of the sauce according to your preference by playing with the amount of pasta water added.
This dish can be easily customized with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Chicken Penne Pasta can be frozen for a quick meal on busy days. Here’s how to do it:

Cool the pasta completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or chicken stock to loosen the sauce.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape such as farfalle or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Chicken Penne Pasta?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Can I add more cheese?

Of course! Cheese lovers can add extra Parmesan or even mozzarella for a cheesy twist.

Next Up in Your Queue

If you’re loving this Chicken Penne Pasta recipe, here are some other delicious dishes to try:

Grilled Chicken Pesto Subs – A perfect sandwich for any meal.
Saucy Peanut Noodles With Chicken – A quick and flavorful noodle dish.
Cajun Pasta – A spicy twist on classic pasta.

Let’s Eat

There you have it! This Chicken Penne Pasta recipe is an absolute delight that combines simple ingredients into a delicious and hearty meal. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and enjoy every delightful bite of your homemade Chicken Penne Pasta.