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Creamy Spicy Chicken Penne Recipe

4.8 from 72 reviews

Crac Chicken Penne is a creamy, spicy pasta dish featuring tender seared and oven-baked chicken breast paired with al dente penne pasta. The sauce boasts a rich blend of butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley, delivering a luscious and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to be ready for baking the chicken after searing.
  2. Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil. This will be your seasoning blend for the chicken.
  3. Season the Chicken: Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts to ensure full flavor in every bite.
  4. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  5. Bake the Chicken: Place the skillet with the seared chicken into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it is fully cooked.
  6. Cook the Penne: While the chicken bakes, cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  7. Rest and Slice: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices, then slice into strips.
  8. Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over low heat. Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Cook gently until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
  9. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked penne pasta in the creamy sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated with the rich flavor.
  10. Serve and Garnish: Plate the creamy penne and top with the sliced chicken breasts. Optionally, garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan for added color and taste.

Notes

  • Using an oven-safe skillet allows seamless transition from stovetop searing to oven baking, simplifying cooking and cleanup.
  • Fresh garlic can be substituted for garlic powder if a stronger garlic flavor is preferred.
  • Adjust seasoning quantities according to personal taste to control the spice level.
  • Half-and-half or whole milk can substitute heavy cream for a lighter sauce, but the creaminess will be reduced.
  • Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps maintain juiciness and tenderness.

Keywords: Chicken Penne Pasta, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Baked Chicken Recipe, Italian Pasta Dish, Spicy Chicken Pasta