10 Delicious Chicken Penne Italiano Recipes

Just when you thought chicken and pasta couldn’t get any more comforting, we’ve rounded up 10 Delicious Chicken Penne Italiano Recipes that are sure to spice up your dinner routine. From creamy Alfredo to zesty tomato basil, these dishes blend the heartiness of chicken with the classic flavors of Italy. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, each recipe promises a delicious escape to Italy from your kitchen. Keep reading to find your next favorite meal!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Italiano

Many home cooks dream of mastering a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, and this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Italiano fits the bill perfectly. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring every step is clear and manageable, even for beginners.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• A splash of olive oil
• A couple of tablespoons of butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, just a pinch of each
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil and a couple of tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until golden and no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Tip: Keep the garlic moving to prevent burning.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the chicken and garlic. Let it simmer gently for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.

Just like that, you’ve got a dish with a luxuriously creamy texture and a rich, garlicky flavor that’s balanced by the freshness of the Italian seasoning. Serve it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a side of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce.

Spicy Arrabbiata Chicken Penne Italiano

Perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals, this Spicy Arrabbiata Chicken Penne Italiano combines tender chicken, al dente penne, and a fiery tomato sauce that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz penne pasta
• A couple of tablespoons of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference)
• A splash of dry white wine (optional, but it adds depth)
• 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
• A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season
• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Tip: Don’t let the garlic burn, or it’ll turn bitter.
4. Pour in the splash of white wine, if using, and let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly. This step adds a lovely complexity to the sauce.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the torn basil leaves, and stir to combine everything well. Let it heat through for another 2 minutes.
7. Toss the cooked penne with the spicy arrabbiata sauce and chicken until evenly coated. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Now, the dish boasts a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, with the penne providing a satisfying bite. For an extra touch, garnish with more fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken Penne Italiano

Now, let’s dive into creating a dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you crave something comforting yet effortlessly elegant.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• A splash of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• A couple of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, just a pinch of each

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining for adjusting sauce consistency later.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure each piece gets a nice sear.
3. Lower the heat to medium, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
5. Stir in the cooked penne, torn basil leaves, and Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to finish.

Finished with a silky cream sauce that clings to every noodle, this dish offers a delightful contrast between the tender chicken and the chewy pasta. For an extra touch of luxury, serve it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few whole basil leaves on top.

Mushroom and Spinach Chicken Penne Italiano

Unlock the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying Mushroom and Spinach Chicken Penne Italiano. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach in a creamy sauce that clings to every piece of penne.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of penne pasta
• 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• A couple of cups of sliced mushrooms
• A handful of fresh spinach
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• A splash of olive oil
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• A half cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to season

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure the chicken gets a nice sear.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Cook until the mushrooms are soft and golden, about 4 minutes.
5. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.
6. Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
7. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1 minute.
8. Tip: Adding the spinach last preserves its vibrant color and nutrients.
9. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
10. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one final toss.

Rich and creamy, this dish offers a delightful contrast between the al dente pasta and the tender chicken. Serve it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Pesto Chicken Penne Italiano with Pine Nuts

Let’s dive into creating a dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color, perfect for those who adore the fresh, herby punch of pesto combined with the comforting heartiness of chicken and pasta.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of penne pasta
• 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• A generous 1/2 cup of homemade or store-bought pesto
• A splash of olive oil
• A couple of garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup of pine nuts, toasted
• A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside, about 5-6 minutes per side. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure each piece gets a nice sear.
3. Lower the heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the pesto and a 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet, mixing well to coat the chicken evenly. Tip: The pasta water helps to loosen the pesto, creating a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
5. Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the pesto sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time.
6. Finish by sprinkling the toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan cheese over the top, giving it one final gentle toss.

With its creamy pesto coating, tender chicken, and the crunch of pine nuts, this dish offers a delightful contrast in textures. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce, or enjoy it as is for a satisfying meal that’s bursting with Italian flavors.

Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Penne Italiano

Unlock the flavors of Italy with this simple yet delicious Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Penne Italiano, perfect for a cozy dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl. Let’s walk through the steps together to create a dish that’s as vibrant in taste as it is in color.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of penne pasta
• 1 lb of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 roasted red peppers, sliced
• A splash of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• A couple of fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, just a pinch

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining for adjusting sauce consistency later.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until golden and no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Tip: Keep the heat medium to avoid burning the garlic.
4. Add the sliced roasted red peppers to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic, then pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained penne, tossing everything together until well coated in the sauce.
7. Finish by stirring in the chopped basil leaves, then serve immediately.

Bright and creamy with a hint of sweetness from the roasted peppers, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Try serving it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a side of garlic bread for an extra touch of indulgence.

Four Cheese Chicken Penne Italiano

Four Cheese Chicken Penne Italiano is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, al dente penne, and a rich, creamy four-cheese sauce. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of penne pasta
• 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• a splash of white wine
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• a couple of handfuls of shredded mozzarella
• a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan
• a dash of ricotta cheese
• a pinch of shredded provolone
• salt and pepper to season

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining for adjusting sauce consistency later.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning.
3. Lower the heat to medium, add the minced garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Gradually add the mozzarella, Parmesan, ricotta, and provolone, stirring until the cheeses melt into a smooth sauce. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
5. Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Lusciously creamy with a perfect balance of cheesy flavors, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce, or top with fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Olive and Artichoke Chicken Penne Italiano

Begin by imagining a dish that combines the heartiness of chicken with the tangy flavors of olives and artichokes, all tossed in a comforting penne pasta. This Olive and Artichoke Chicken Penne Italiano is a weeknight dinner hero that’s as flavorful as it is easy to make.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of penne pasta
• 1 lb of chicken breast, cubed
• A splash of olive oil
• A couple of garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup of marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1/2 cup of kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 tbsp of Italian seasoning
• A pinch of red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining for adjusting sauce consistency later.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure the chicken browns nicely.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts, sliced olives, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
6. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
7. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and give it one final toss before serving. Tip: Letting the dish sit for a minute before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Enjoy the delightful contrast of textures, from the tender chicken and pasta to the briny pop of olives and artichokes. For a fresh twist, serve it with a side of arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette.

Bacon and Pea Chicken Penne Italiano

Unlock the flavors of Italy with this comforting Bacon and Pea Chicken Penne Italiano, a dish that combines simplicity with rich tastes, perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• A splash of olive oil
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• A couple of fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, just a pinch

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the cubed chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 6 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 2 minutes, just until they’re heated through.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it thicken slightly, about 3 minutes.
7. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet along with the reserved bacon, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Tip: The starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
8. Garnish with torn basil leaves before serving.

Mmm, the creamy sauce clings beautifully to each penne, with pops of sweetness from the peas and a salty crunch from the bacon. Serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Lemon Butter Chicken Penne Italiano

Oftentimes, the simplest dishes bring the most comfort, and this Lemon Butter Chicken Penne Italiano is no exception. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a vibrant lemon butter sauce for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– A splash of white wine (about 1/4 cup)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– The juice of 1 lemon
– 2 tbsp butter
– A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper, just a pinch each

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure each piece gets a nice sear.
3. Lower the heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in the chicken broth and lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Tip: Taste the sauce now and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Reduce the heat to low and swirl in the butter until the sauce becomes creamy and slightly thickened. Tip: Adding butter off the heat prevents the sauce from breaking.
7. Toss the cooked penne into the skillet with the sauce and chicken, ensuring everything is well coated. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy the creamy texture and bright flavors of this dish, perfect with a sprinkle of Parmesan or a side of crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Conclusion

Oodles of flavor await in these 10 Delicious Chicken Penne Italiano Recipes, perfect for spicing up your dinner routine. Whether you’re craving creamy, spicy, or herby, there’s a dish here to delight every palate. Don’t just take our word for it—try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and spread the love by pinning your top picks on Pinterest. Happy cooking!