Pasta dishes have a magical way of bringing warmth and comfort to our tables. Among the multitude of recipes available, Chicken Penne Pasta stands out as a favorite. This dish combines the delightful shapes of penne pasta with tender pieces of chicken and a rich pasta sauce—a blend that creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Why We Love This Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe
What makes Chicken Penne Pasta a go-to meal? The answer lies in its versatility and simplicity. First, the ingredients come together with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. The creamy texture of cottage cheese alongside the robust flavor of pasta sauce creates a rich, satisfying experience in every bite. Additionally, the combination of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the pasta ensures that you have a fulfilling dish that can satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
This recipe synergizes flavors while allowing room for personal adjustments, meaning you can easily tailor it to suit your preferences. Adding extra vegetables, adjusting spice levels, or even substituting with gluten-free pasta are just a few ways to make this dish truly your own. It’s comforting, it’s fulfilling, and it’s incredibly tasty—there’s a lot to love about Chicken Penne Pasta!
Ingredients for Chicken Penne Pasta
To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta: This pasta shape holds sauce beautifully and offers a delightful texture.
- 24-ounce jar pasta sauce: Choose your favorite variety, whether marinara, alfredo, or a smoky blend.
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed: Fresh garlic brings a fragrant, bold flavor to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: A touch of heat to elevate the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 cup small curd cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and a protein boost for a satisfying meal.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded: Leftover rotisserie chicken works excellently!
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melted to perfection, mozzarella provides the perfect cheesy topping.
How to Make Chicken Penne Pasta Directions
Making Chicken Penne Pasta is a straightforward process that yields delightful results. Follow these simple steps to create this beloved dish:
Boil Water and Cook Pasta: Begin by filling a large pot or skillet with water and bringing it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet (or a separate one, if preferred), combine the pasta sauce, pressed garlic, and red pepper flakes. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it becomes bubbly and hot. The aroma of the garlic will start to fill your kitchen, which is always a good sign!
Mix in Cottage Cheese: Add the cottage cheese into the sauce mixture, stirring well to incorporate it. The cottage cheese will melt slightly as it heats, adding a creamy texture to the sauce.
Add Chicken: Next, introduce the cooked chicken into the skillet. Stir to combine and let it cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
Combine with Pasta and Cheese: Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta and mozzarella cheese. Mix everything until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as desired.
Final Touch: Let the pasta heat through for another minute or two, allowing the mozzarella cheese to melt completely.
Serve: Once everything is heated and well-mixed, your Chicken Penne Pasta is ready to be served!
How to Serve Chicken Penne Pasta
Serving Chicken Penne Pasta can be as straightforward or as fancy as you prefer. For a casual dinner, serve generous portions in bowls or plates, ensuring each serving has a good amount of chicken and sauce. If you want to elevate your presentation, garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to add a pop of color and flavor.
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish even further, offering a delightful nutty flavor. Pair your Chicken Penne Pasta with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast, or enjoy it with garlic bread for a comforting touch. This dish is equally enjoyable whether consumed on a cozy night in or served to guests at a gathering.
Expert Tips: Chicken Penne Pasta
To truly make your Chicken Penne Pasta shine, consider these expert tips:
Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook your penne pasta until it is al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Flavor Boost: If you enjoy more robust flavors, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers into your sauce mix. They will add depth and sweetness to the dish.
Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. After cooking, let the pasta cool slightly, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove or in the oven until warmed through.
Freezing: Chicken Penne Pasta can also be frozen! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and seal tightly. It can last up to three months frozen. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
How to Store Chicken Penne Pasta
Once you’ve enjoyed a comforting meal of Chicken Penne Pasta, you may find leftovers worth saving. Follow these simple steps to properly store your dish:
Cool Slightly: Allow the Chicken Penne Pasta to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes after cooking. This helps prevent condensation in the storage container.
Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled pasta into airtight containers. You can use meal prep containers or any suitable storage containers you have on hand.
Refrigerate: Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the leftovers within three days.
Freezing for Later: If you wish to save it for a longer time, place the pasta in freezer bags, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date for easy identification and store in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or stovetop until heated through.
Variation of Chicken Penne Pasta
One of the best parts of Chicken Penne Pasta is its adaptability. Here are a few variations to consider that can spice things up or cater to your taste preference:
Vegetable Medley: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a healthy twist. Sauté these vegetables before mixing them into the sauce for added flavor and nutrients.
Spicy Kick: If you adore heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Creamy Alfredo Version: Swap the pasta sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich and indulgent variation.
Herby Flavor: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning to the sauce for an aromatic profile.
Cheese Lovers Delight: Try mixing different types of cheese like gouda or parmesan into the mozzarella for a layered cheesy experience.
Whatever twist you opt for, Chicken Penne Pasta remains a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity.
FAQ
What is Chicken Penne Pasta?
Chicken Penne Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish made with penne pasta, cooked chicken, a rich pasta sauce, cottage cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
How can I make my Chicken Penne Pasta creamy?
The addition of cottage cheese is key to achieving a creamy texture. You can also use a cream-based sauce or add heavy cream for extra richness.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne pasta is traditional, you can substitute it with any pasta shape that you prefer, such as rotini, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta.
How do I make Chicken Penne Pasta spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Can I freeze leftovers of Chicken Penne Pasta?
Yes! Chicken Penne Pasta can be frozen for up to three months. Ensure it’s stored in airtight containers for freshness.
Chicken Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta This pasta shape holds sauce beautifully.
- 24 ounces jar pasta sauce Choose your favorite variety (marinara, alfredo, etc.).
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed Fresh garlic brings bold flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes A touch of heat.
Creamy Ingredients
- 1 cup small curd cottage cheese Adds creaminess and protein.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded Leftover rotisserie chicken works well.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded Provides the cheesy topping.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce
- In the same skillet, combine the pasta sauce, pressed garlic, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium until bubbly.
- Stir in the cottage cheese, mixing well to incorporate.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and heat through for a few minutes.
- Carefully fold in the cooked penne pasta and mozzarella cheese until well-coated with the sauce.
Final Steps
- Let the pasta heat for another minute or two to allow the mozzarella cheese to melt completely.
- Serve warm with optional garnishes.