Creamy Baked Chicken Penne Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food You’ll Crave Again and Again
Rich, cheesy, and oven-baked — juicy seasoned chicken in a velvety Alfredo-style cream sauce tossed with tender penne and topped with bubbling golden mozzarella.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked pasta wins hearts for many reasons: it’s creamy, cheesy, and oven-baked to perfection. It uses simple, everyday ingredients but delivers gourmet-level flavor — great for leftovers and endlessly customizable with vegetables, spices, or crunchy toppings.
Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs (cubed) Provides protein and heartiness. Thighs add juiciness; breasts keep it lean.
- 1 tbsp olive oil Helps the chicken brown and retain moisture while sautéing.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Adds a fragrant herb blend that complements the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder Boosts savory depth and echoes the fresh garlic in the sauce.
- Salt & black pepper (to taste) Essential seasoning to balance and elevate the dish.
For the Pasta & Sauce
- 10 oz penne pasta Ridgey tubes hold the sauce and pockets of cheese for maximum flavor in every bite.
- 2 cups heavy cream The base of the luxuriously silky, Alfredo-style sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced Fresh, aromatic flavor that transforms a basic cream sauce into something savory and bright.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Adds saltiness, nuttiness and helps thicken the sauce for a silky texture.
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Creates a gooey, melty, golden top layer when baked.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional) A gentle heat to counterbalance the cream.
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley Freshness and color to finish the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside — the pasta will finish cooking in the oven. -
Season & Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season cubed chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Sauté 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. -
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in parmesan and 1 cup mozzarella until smooth — cook 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. -
Combine & Bake
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, top with the remaining mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, until bubbly and golden. -
Finish & Serve
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Perfecting This Dish
- Don’t overcook the pasta: slightly underdone pasta will hold texture after baking.
- Use fresh garlic: it makes a noticeable difference in aroma and flavor.
- Add vegetables: spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes add color and nutrition.
- For crunch: toss panko breadcrumbs with a little olive oil and sprinkle on top before baking.
- Reheat gently: cover with foil and warm in the oven to preserve creaminess.
- Freshly grated cheese performs best: pre-shredded blends contain anti-caking agents that can affect melt and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Creamy Baked Chicken Penne Pasta with:
- A crisp Caesar salad to cut through the richness.
- Warm garlic bread or focaccia for dipping in the sauce.
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for balance.
- A chilled white wine or sparkling beverage to cleanse the palate.
Final Thoughts: A Dish That Always Delivers
This Creamy Baked Chicken Penne Pasta blends simplicity and indulgence: juicy chicken, a silky cream sauce, and a melty cheese topping baked until golden. It’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive for guests — a reliable, delicious pasta bake that becomes a go-to favorite. Make it once and you’ll know why it’s comfort food perfection.
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