I stumbled upon this incredible one-pot meal on a chaotic Tuesday night when my sink was full of dishes and my energy was running on empty. The magic of throwing raw pasta directly into the sauce alongside the chicken completely changed my weeknight dinner rotation for the better. It is creamy, comforting, and incredibly simple to pull together without sacrificing any of that rich Italian-inspired flavor we all crave.
You will find yourself making this Parmesan Chicken Penne Guide Recipe over and over again because it truly delivers a gourmet experience with minimal effort. This recipe has quickly become my go-to solution for feeding a hungry family without spending hours standing over the stove. If you love experimenting with luxurious sauces, you might also enjoy the Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto Recipe for a seafood twist on creamy indulgence.
Ingredients
Here is everything you need to recreate this delicious meal in your own kitchen.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – This provides the fat needed to sear the chicken and adds a subtle savory background note to the entire dish, so try to use a quality extra virgin variety if you have it on hand.
- 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast – You will need to cut this into 1-inch bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and integrate perfectly with the pasta shapes in every single bite.
- 3 cloves garlic – Fresh garlic is absolutely essential here for that aromatic punch, so mince it finely right before cooking to release the best oils and avoid the bitter taste of jarred versions.
- 1 can Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup – This is the secret weapon that creates a velvety, rich sauce base without needing to make a complicated roux or use heavy cream from scratch.
- 3 cups No Salt Added Ready to Use Chicken Broth – Using a low-sodium broth gives you complete control over the saltiness of the final dish while adding a deep, savory liquid for the pasta to absorb as it cooks.
- 3 cups uncooked penne pasta – The tube shape of penne is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, and since you cook it right in the broth, it releases starch that naturally thickens the mixture.
- 2 cups frozen peas – These add a pop of sweetness and bright green color to the dish, and because they are frozen, they keep their texture perfectly when added at the very end of the cooking process.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grating your cheese from a block will result in a much smoother melt than using the pre-shredded kind, which often contains anti-caking agents that can make sauces grainy. If you enjoy parmesan dishes, consider also trying the Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto Recipe for another rich Parmesan experience.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves – Chopping or tearing fresh basil right before serving adds a peppery, fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce and brightens the whole plate.
Note: This recipe yields approximately 6 generous servings based on the quantities listed above.
Variations
Cooking is all about adaptation, and this pasta dish is incredibly versatile. If you have dietary restrictions or just want to switch things up, here are several ways to modify the recipe.
Dairy-Free Adaptation
If you are avoiding dairy, you can swap the condensed cream of chicken soup for a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup or a coconut milk-based alternative. Omit the Parmesan cheese at the end or replace it with nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan alternative. Be sure to check that your breadcrumbs or other garnishes are also dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Option
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the standard wheat penne for a high-quality gluten-free pasta blend, such as brown rice or corn pasta. Keep in mind that gluten-free pasta can sometimes release more starch or cook faster, so you may need to adjust the liquid slightly or reduce the simmering time by a few minutes to prevent mushiness. Ensure your condensed soup is also certified gluten-free.
Veggie-Packed Version
While the recipe calls for peas, you can easily boost the nutritional value by adding more vegetables. Fresh spinach stirs in beautifully at the end, wilting in seconds. Chopped broccoli florets or sliced zucchini can be added during the last 5 minutes of simmering. Sun-dried tomatoes are another excellent addition that provides a tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.
Spicy Kick
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes during the garlic sautéing step. This infuses the oil with spice before the liquid is added. You could also stir in a teaspoon of Calabrian chili paste or swap the regular chicken broth for a spicy vegetable broth to give the dish a warming undertone.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 Minutes
- Cooking Time: 24 Minutes
- Total Time: 29 Minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven – You need a wide, deep pot that can hold the liquid and pasta comfortably while allowing for evaporation.
- Chef’s Knife – Essential for safely and efficiently cutting the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes.
- Cutting Board – Use a separate plastic board for raw poultry to prevent cross-contamination in your kitchen.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Precision with the liquid-to-pasta ratio is important in one-pot meals to ensure the pasta cooks perfectly.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – A sturdy tool is necessary for scraping the bottom of the pan to prevent the creamy sauce from sticking or burning.
- Cheese Grater – A handheld microplane or box grater allows you to get fluffy, fresh parmesan cheese right over the dish.
How to Make Parmesan Chicken Penne Recipe
Searing the Chicken Base
Start by heating your olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Toss in the cubed chicken breast and cook it for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is nicely browned on all sides. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for just 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Building the Sauce and Pasta
Pour the condensed cream of chicken soup and the chicken broth into the pan, stirring well to combine everything into a smooth liquid. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, ensuring it is submerged, and bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to medium. Let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the sauce thickens.
Final Touches and Serving
Once the pasta is tender, stir in the frozen peas and let them cook for about 3 minutes until they are heated through and vibrant green. Remove the pot from the heat and check that the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce coats the pasta beautifully. Finish the dish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped basil over the top before serving immediately.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
- Don’t Rush the Browning: I have found that letting the chicken get a nice golden seared crust adds a depth of flavor that boiling simply cannot achieve.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-packaged cheese contains cellulose which prevents melting, so I always buy a block of Parmesan and grate it myself for the silkiest sauce possible.
- Watch the Simmer: Every stove is different, so keep an eye on your liquid levels; if it evaporates too fast, I usually add a splash more broth to keep it creamy.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Dried basil works in a pinch, but using fresh basil added at the very last second truly elevates this from a cafeteria meal to a restaurant-quality dinner.
- Resting Time: I recommend letting the pot sit off the heat for about two or three minutes before serving, as this allows the sauce to set up and cling to the penne perfectly.
How to Serve Parmesan Chicken Penne
Presentation is key to making this simple one-pot meal feel special. I love serving this pasta in wide, shallow bowls which help cool the pasta slightly while showcasing the beautiful green peas and basil against the creamy sauce. A cracked pepper garnish looks elegant and adds a nice bite.
For side dishes, you cannot go wrong with a crisp green salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the creamy richness of the chicken and pasta. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are also perfect companions, allowing you to mop up every last drop of the delicious sauce remaining in the bowl.
Nutritional Information
Here is a general overview of the nutritional profile for this comforting dish.
- Calories: Moderate calorie count suitable for a main dinner portion.
- Protein: High protein content due to the generous amount of chicken breast.
- Carbohydrates: Provides energy primarily from the pasta and natural sugars in the peas.
- Fat: Contains healthy fats from olive oil and richness from the condensed soup and cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigerator Storage
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken significantly as it cools, so it is best to keep it sealed tight to prevent the pasta from drying out or absorbing strange fridge odors.
Freezing Guidelines
While you can freeze this dish, creamy pasta sauces can sometimes separate upon thawing. If you must freeze it, place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months, noting that the pasta might be slightly softer upon reheating.
Reheating Instructions
To restore the creamy texture, reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or extra chicken broth. Stir frequently to incorporate the added liquid back into the sauce, ensuring it becomes smooth and velvety again rather than oily or clumped.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Cleanup
There is nothing better than finishing a delicious meal and realizing you only have one pot to scrub. This recipe eliminates the need for a separate colander or boiling pot, making your evening cleanup incredibly fast and stress-free. - Kid-Friendly Flavors
The creamy, mild sauce and tender chicken pieces are generally a huge hit with children and picky eaters. It is comfort food at its finest, avoiding strong spices or strange textures that often cause dinnertime battles. - Budget-Conscious Ingredients
Using pantry staples like pasta, broth, and canned soup makes this an affordable meal option. Chicken breast stretches further when combined with pasta and peas, feeding a family of six without breaking the bank. - Incredible Texture
Because the pasta cooks directly in the broth and soup mixture, it absorbs flavor from the inside out. This method releases pasta starch into the liquid, creating a naturally thick and luxurious mouthfeel that is hard to beat. - Speed and Convenience
With a total time of under 30 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules. It requires minimal chopping and active cooking time, allowing you to multitask or relax while the pasta simmers to perfection.
Parmesan Chicken Penne Guide Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by heating your olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Toss in the cubed chicken breast and cook it for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is nicely browned on all sides. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for just 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour the condensed cream of chicken soup and the chicken broth into the pan, stirring well to combine everything into a smooth liquid. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, ensuring it is submerged, and bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to medium. Let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the sauce thickens.
- Once the pasta is tender, stir in the frozen peas and let them cook for about 3 minutes until they are heated through and vibrant green. Remove the pot from the heat and check that the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce coats the pasta beautifully. Finish the dish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped basil over the top before serving immediately.
Notes
- Don’t Rush the Browning: I have found that letting the chicken get a nice golden seared crust adds a depth of flavor that boiling simply cannot achieve.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-packaged cheese contains cellulose which prevents melting, so I always buy a block of Parmesan and grate it myself for the silkiest sauce possible.
- Watch the Simmer: Every stove is different, so keep an eye on your liquid levels; if it evaporates too fast, I usually add a splash more broth to keep it creamy.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Dried basil works in a pinch, but using fresh basil added at the very last second truly elevates this from a cafeteria meal to a restaurant-quality dinner.
- Resting Time: I recommend letting the pot sit off the heat for about two or three minutes before serving, as this allows the sauce to set up and cling to the penne perfectly.
