Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta

This creamy chicken pasta with penne and sun-dried tomatoes is comfort food that feels a bit fancy. It brings together tender chicken and a rich parmesan sauce that feels perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

I first tried this recipe when I wanted to impress a friend with something easy but flavorful. Now it’s a staple when I crave comfort food that feels a little special.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into one-inch pieces: cooks evenly and stays tender
• Penne pasta: holds sauce beautifully, choose a good quality brand for best texture
• Olive oil: for cooking chicken, pick extra virgin for flavor
• Butter: base for the sauce, makes it rich and smooth
• Minced garlic: brings a fragrant aroma and depth, fresh is best
• All-purpose flour: thickens the sauce, use fresh for best results
• Chicken broth: adds savory flavor, homemade or low sodium store-bought works well
• Heavy cream: makes the sauce creamy and indulgent, choose full fat for richness
• Grated parmesan cheese: lends a nutty, salty taste, freshly grated is key
• Sun-dried tomatoes: add sweetness and a slight chew, opt for oil-packed and drain well
• Paprika: warms the sauce with a subtle smoky flavor
• Dried Italian seasoning: blends herbs for complexity, look for a fresh jar
• Salt and pepper: season to taste, fresh cracked pepper adds brightness
• Fresh basil for garnish: adds a bright herbal note and a pop of color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Chicken:

Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until no longer pink and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Make the Sauce Base:

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in flour and cook while stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce later.

Incorporate Liquids and Cheese:

Slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and freshly grated parmesan cheese, making sure it is smooth without lumps. Add sun-dried tomatoes along with paprika and Italian seasoning. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly, around 3 to 5 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Chicken:

Add the cooked penne and chicken back to the skillet. Stir well so every piece is coated in the luscious sauce. Warm everything evenly on medium-low heat for a minute or two.

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top for freshness and finish with extra parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Save

I love how the parmesan cheese melts into the sauce creating a creamy, savory base that makes every bite feel indulgent. One memorable dinner was when I served this at a family gathering, and everyone asked for the recipe, which felt like a win for my home cooking pride.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can change the texture of the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have penne, rigatoni or fusilli can be good substitutes as they also hold the sauce well. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version but expect a less rich sauce. Fresh tomatoes can replace sun-dried tomatoes but add them earlier in the cooking process and cook down to soften.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. A side of crusty garlic bread also works beautifully to scoop up any extra sauce. For drinks, a glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir complements the creamy, savory flavors.

Cultural Context

This recipe is a modern American take on classic Italian pasta dishes that combine cream-based sauces and hearty proteins. The name hints at the idea that it is so delicious it could inspire a proposal. It’s a blend of comforting familiarity with a touch of elegance, ideal for special dinners or anytime you want to treat yourself.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne pasta is ideal as it holds the creamy sauce well, but rigatoni or ziti can be good alternatives.

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes can be used but won’t provide the same concentrated sweetness and tang. Roasting them beforehand helps deepen the flavor.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker if needed?

To thicken the sauce, cook it a bit longer to reduce, or add a slurry of flour mixed with cold water before simmering gently.

→ Is it necessary to cook the chicken fully before adding it back to the sauce?

Yes, cooking the chicken thoroughly ensures it’s tender and safe. Adding it back to the sauce allows it to absorb additional flavor without overcooking.

→ What garnishes complement this dish well?

Fresh chopped basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese brighten the rich flavors and add freshness.