If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that comes together in no time, Chicken Penne Pasta is a perfect choice. This creamy, flavorful pasta dish is a delightful way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. It’s bursting with flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, and fresh spinach, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This Chicken Penne Pasta recipe is a keeper for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit your taste preferences. Second, it’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Lastly, the combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about.
The Essentials
To make this delicious Chicken Penne Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2-1/2 cups penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil: Coarsely chopped, these add a tangy depth of flavor.
- 8 ounces mushrooms: Thinly sliced for a savory element.
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken: Use leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken for convenience.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Packed for a fresh touch and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: To add richness and flavor.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: For creating a luscious sauce.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: A must for aromatic flavor.
- 3 tablespoons flour: To thicken the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken stock: For the base of the sauce.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk is preferred for creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: To enhance the flavors.
- 5 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For serving.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Fresh thyme: Optional, for garnish.
Tools & Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, gather the following tools:
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Skillet: To prepare the sauce and combine everything.
- Whisk: For mixing the sauce ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring the pasta and sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Chicken Penne Pasta in Steps
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring 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.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Chicken and Spinach
Add the diced chicken, baby spinach, and Italian seasoning to the sauce. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is heated through.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Chicken Penne Pasta warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme, if desired.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some seasonal ingredient swaps you can try:
- Use cherry tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes for a fresh summer flavor.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture.
- Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach in the winter months.
- Try different pasta shapes such as fusilli or farfalle for a fun twist.
If You’re Curious
If you have questions about the Chicken Penne Pasta or want to explore variations, here are a few ideas:
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth of flavor.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
Storage & Reheat Guide
Leftover Chicken Penne Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat:
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken stock to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Questions People Ask
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap out penne for any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or rigatoni, depending on what you have on hand.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, like bell peppers or broccoli, for a hearty meal.
Can I freeze Chicken Penne Pasta?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from the freezer, adding a bit of liquid to help restore creaminess.
What can I serve with Chicken Penne Pasta?
This pasta dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
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That’s a Wrap
This Chicken Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables into one delicious dish. With its quick prep time and easy steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy meal with loved ones. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your taste. Next time you have leftover chicken, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Chicken Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring 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.
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the diced chicken, baby spinach, and Italian seasoning to the sauce. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is heated through.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Chicken Penne Pasta warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme, if desired.
Notes
- This dish can be made with any type of pasta you have on hand.
- Substitute vegetables seasonally for a fresh twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
