Craving a delicious and hassle-free meal? Our simple chicken penne pasta recipe is the perfect solution. With just a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you can whip up a flavorful dish that will satisfy your taste buds.
This versatile recipe can be customized to your liking, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. It’s an excellent option for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or a quick and comforting lunch.
Ingredients and Equipment
**For the Chicken:**
* 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Pasta:**
* 12 ounces penne pasta
* 4 cups water or chicken broth
* Salt to taste
**For the Sauce:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet
* Medium saucepan
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Knife
* Cutting board
How to Make Simple Chicken Penne Pasta
1. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, then heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Add the penne pasta to the medium saucepan and season the water or chicken broth with salt.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
6. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
7. In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat.
8. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
9. Stir in the diced tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
10. If desired, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
11. Dice the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce.
12. Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
Tips or Possible Variation
* For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
* Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
* If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with milk or Greek yogurt.
* To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
* Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this simple chicken penne pasta recipe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. With its ease of preparation and versatility, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by all. So next time you’re in need of a quick and satisfying meal, give this recipe a try and let its flavors tantalize your taste buds.