Creamy Parmesan Chicken Penne Pasta is a cozy, rich dinner that comes together fast. It has tender chicken, a silky Parmesan cream sauce, and pasta that holds it all. You can make it on a weeknight, but it also feels special for guests. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are easy. You can add veggies, change the pasta, or use what you have. This dish is family-friendly and great for all seasons, from cool nights to busy summer days.

Why Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Penne Pasta

This pasta gives you comfort and ease in one pot. The sauce is creamy and smooth, thanks to fresh Parmesan and a gentle simmer. It coats the penne just right, so every bite tastes rich and balanced. You do not need fancy items or hard steps—just chicken, pasta, cream, broth, and cheese. It is a smart way to use pantry staples and make a meal that feels complete.

This recipe fits any season. In fall and winter, it warms you up with a cozy, creamy sauce. In spring or summer, you can add peas, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to keep it fresh and bright. It also stretches your budget. A little Parmesan and cream go a long way, and leftover chicken works great here. You can cook it in about 30 minutes, so it is perfect for weeknights. It also reheats well for lunch the next day, which adds even more value.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Penne Pasta

Cozy Flavor with Everyday Ingredients

You get deep, savory flavor from garlic, chicken broth, and Parmesan. Butter and cream make it silky. Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes add comfort and a light kick. Everything is simple and easy to find.

Quick to Make, Easy to Love

This recipe uses one pan for the sauce and a pot for pasta. It is ready in about 30 minutes. Clean-up is simple, the steps are clear, and the finish is always creamy and satisfying.

Ingredients and Substitutions

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• 1 to 2 cups baby spinach or frozen peas (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Smart Swaps for Dietary Needs

• Lighter sauce: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream; simmer a bit longer to thicken.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free penne and make sure the broth is gluten-free.
• Low lactose: Use lactose-free cream and a hard aged Parmesan (often lower in lactose).
• No chicken: Swap with cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free option.
• No cream: Use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-light version (flavor will change slightly).

Smart Variation (Optional)

• Sun-dried tomato twist: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a handful of arugula.
• Lemon-herb: Add extra lemon zest and fresh basil at the end for a bright finish.
• Bacon boost: Crisp 3 slices of bacon first; cook chicken in the bacon fat and crumble bacon on top.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Penne Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Season the chicken: Pat dry. Season with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
4. Start the sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Deglaze: Pour in chicken broth. Scrape up browned bits. Simmer 2 minutes.
6. Make it creamy: Stir in heavy cream, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently 2–3 minutes.
7. Add cheese: Lower heat. Stir in Parmesan a handful at a time until melted and smooth.
8. Combine: Return chicken (and any juices) to the skillet. Add cooked penne. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
9. Finish: Stir in spinach or peas (if using) until just wilted/warmed. Add lemon juice if you like. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
10. Serve: Top with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Tips for Texture, Timing & Tools

• Use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.
• Keep heat medium-low after adding cream and cheese to avoid curdling.
• Reserve pasta water. The starch helps the sauce cling and adjust thickness.
• Use a wide skillet so the sauce reduces evenly and pasta tosses easily.
• Slice chicken thin for fast, even cooking.

Storage, Reheating & FAQs

How to Store It Right

• Cool fully, then store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for 3–4 days.
• Freezing is possible up to 2 months but the cream sauce may separate. Thaw in the fridge before reheating and whisk in a splash of warm cream or broth.

Reheating Without Losing Flavor

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or broth. Stir gently until creamy.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (45–60 seconds), stirring in between. Add a splash of liquid if dry.
• Avoid high heat. Gentle heat keeps the sauce smooth.

A Dish Worth Making Again and Again

This pasta is creamy, filling, and flexible. It works for date night, family dinner, or meal prep. Change the add-ins with the season and make it your own.

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FAQs

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes. The sauce will be a bit lighter. Simmer a minute longer to thicken, and add Parmesan slowly to keep it smooth.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Add shredded rotisserie chicken in Step 8 and heat through. Skip the searing step.

How do I keep the sauce from getting grainy?

Use fresh-grated Parmesan, lower the heat before adding it, and add it in small handfuls. Do not boil the sauce once the cheese is in.

What vegetables go well in this pasta?

Spinach, peas, broccoli florets, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes all work well. Add quick-cooking veggies at the end to keep color and texture.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Penne Pasta brings comfort, speed, and simple ingredients to your table. It is easy to adapt, reheats well, and tastes rich without extra fuss. Keep this recipe in your weekly rotation and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal any night.