When it comes to creamy pasta dishes, few can rival the rich, decadent flavors of a Chicken Alfredo Penne. This dish combines the velvety smoothness of Alfredo sauce, tender chunks of chicken, and perfectly cooked penne pasta into one comforting, satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even as a meal prep option, this Chicken Alfredo Penne recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
In this article, I’ll take you through a step-by-step guide to making Chicken Alfredo Penne from scratch, complete with tips for the perfect sauce, seasoning, and pasta cooking. Along the way, we’ll explore variations to make the dish your own, plus ideas for sides to serve with it. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Alfredo Penne
There are a few reasons why Chicken Alfredo Penne is a timeless favorite:
- Comforting and Creamy: The rich Alfredo sauce is made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, creating a creamy texture that’s perfect for those comforting nights when you need a bowl of indulgence.
- Perfectly Balanced: With juicy chicken and al dente penne pasta, this dish offers the right balance of flavors and textures in every bite. The chicken adds a hearty protein punch, while the penne pasta soaks up all that creamy sauce.
- Quick and Easy: It’s an easy recipe to whip up, even on busy weeknights. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a flavorful meal.
- Customizable: This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to add vegetables, swap proteins, or adjust the flavor to your liking. Whether you like it extra cheesy, spicy, or with a medley of veggies, this dish can be tailored to your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Alfredo Penne
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure we have all the ingredients for this mouthwatering Chicken Alfredo Penne. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly and easy-to-make recipe.
For the Chicken Alfredo Penne:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (you can also use thighs for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing the chicken)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any other pasta you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for making the sauce)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (for a rich, creamy sauce)
- 1 cup whole milk (for a smoother texture)
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese (don’t use pre-grated for the best flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for a subtle depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a burst of brightness)
Preparation Tips
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, grate your Parmesan cheese fresh. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the smoothness of your sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. To ensure your chicken stays juicy, cook it over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) when it’s fully cooked.
- Season Your Pasta Water: Salt your pasta water generously! This adds flavor to the penne, which helps the overall taste of the dish. It’s one of those little tips that makes a big difference.
- Make the Sauce to Your Preference: If you like a thicker sauce, use less milk or add extra cheese. For a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for a lower-fat milk or even make it with a blend of milk and cream cheese for added creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Alfredo Penne
Directions:
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer it should read 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Boil the Penne Pasta:
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 9-11 minutes for al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water for the sauce if needed.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Slice the Chicken and Combine:
- While the sauce is simmering, slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Add the sliced chicken on top and stir to combine. If the sauce needs a little more liquid, add some reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired creaminess.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Serve the Chicken Alfredo Penne immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle some more Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Cooking Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Alfredo Penne
- Avoid Lumpy Sauce: To ensure your Alfredo sauce is smooth, make sure to whisk the cream and milk together well before adding to the skillet. If the sauce starts to get lumpy, turn down the heat and stir constantly until it smooths out.
- Creamy Sauce Consistency: If you like a thicker sauce, let the mixture simmer longer, or add a little more Parmesan cheese. For a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of cheese or add more milk.
- Rest the Chicken: After cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
- Customize the Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or throw in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
This Chicken Alfredo Penne recipe is incredibly versatile and can easily be customized to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Vegetarian Version:
- Skip the chicken and add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can sauté the vegetables in the same skillet after cooking the garlic for a delicious veggie-packed Alfredo.
Spicy Chicken Alfredo:
- Add a little heat by mixing in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños with the garlic. You can also use a spicy sausage instead of chicken for a flavorful kick.
Low-Carb Option:
- Swap the penne pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb version. The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with these veggie-based alternatives.
Cheese Lovers’ Alfredo:
- If you’re a cheese enthusiast, try adding ricotta cheese or mascarpone to the sauce for an extra layer of creaminess. You can also experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 600-700
- Protein: 35g (thanks to the chicken)
- Carbs: 40g (mostly from the pasta)
- Fats: 35g (due to the butter, cream, and cheese)
- Fiber: 2-3g (from the pasta and optional vegetables)
Health Benefits:
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Dairy: The Parmesan and heavy cream provide calcium, important for bone health, and vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium.
- Optional Vegetables: If you choose to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli, you’ll get a boost of fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, making the dish more nutrient-dense.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
While Chicken Alfredo Penne is filling on its own, pairing it with a few complementary sides will make your meal even more satisfying:
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy loaf of garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up any extra Alfredo sauce. The crunchy exterior and soft interior balance the creamy pasta beautifully
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy, creamy dressing pairs perfectly with Chicken Alfredo Penne. The salad’s refreshing bite helps cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce, providing a balanced and refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Add some healthy greens to your meal by serving Chicken Alfredo Penne with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. The subtle bitterness of these vegetables helps balance the richness of the creamy pasta, and they also add a nice texture and nutritional boost to your meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts are a great side dish for this recipe. Their slightly caramelized, nutty flavor adds a depth of taste that complements the creamy Alfredo sauce. You can roast them with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
- Simple Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can also complement this rich and creamy pasta dish. The freshness of the greens and the acidity of the vinaigrette will provide a nice balance to the heaviness of the Alfredo sauce.
- Mushroom Risotto: If you’re looking for a more indulgent side, a creamy mushroom risotto pairs beautifully with Chicken Alfredo Penne. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms and the creaminess of the risotto work in harmony with the Alfredo sauce, creating a decadent meal.
- Grilled or Sautéed Shrimp: If you’re in the mood for a bit of seafood, grilled or sautéed shrimp makes a wonderful addition to Chicken Alfredo Penne. The light and delicate flavor of the shrimp contrasts nicely with the rich and creamy sauce, adding a luxurious touch to the dish.
FAQ Section
Can I make Chicken Alfredo Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Chicken Alfredo Penne ahead of time! After assembling the dish, you can cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You may need to add a little extra cream or milk to refresh the sauce while reheating.
Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Penne?
While it’s possible to freeze Chicken Alfredo Penne, the sauce might separate slightly upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, make sure the pasta is slightly undercooked, and then assemble the dish. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop, adding a bit more cream or milk to bring the sauce back to its original creamy consistency.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional for this recipe, you can use any type of pasta you like. Fusilli, fettuccine, rigatoni, or rotini all work well with creamy sauces like Alfredo. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
Can I make this dish without chicken?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish by skipping the chicken and adding extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas. You can also replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
Can I make the Alfredo sauce lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten up the sauce, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt to maintain a creamy texture without the full richness of the original recipe. However, keep in mind that the sauce will be less indulgent, so the flavor may not be as rich.
Cooking Notes and Final Tips
Chef’s Notes:
When making Chicken Alfredo Penne, the sauce is the key to creating that perfect creamy texture. Be sure to cook the garlic gently and avoid burning it, as it can turn bitter. Also, make sure to add the cheese slowly while whisking to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Pro Tips:
- Thicken the Sauce: If your Alfredo sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a little bit of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the simmering sauce. Stir until the desired thickness is reached.
- Fresh Parmesan: Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the smoothness and flavor of the sauce.
- Herb Variations: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the sauce for extra flavor. Fresh parsley also makes a great garnish and adds a pop of color to the dish.
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Penne is a classic comfort food dish that is guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special family meal, this creamy, cheesy pasta will leave everyone asking for seconds. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and that rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, it’s a dish that brings all the best flavors together.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Feel free to drop a comment below or share your photos with me on social media don’t forget to tag me so I can see your delicious creation! And if you’re looking for more recipes like this, be sure to check out my other pasta favorites, such as Fettuccine Alfredo, Pasta Primavera, and Baked Ziti.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this indulgent Chicken Alfredo Penne!