Description
A delicious and creamy baked chicken penne pasta dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 1 ½ lbs (680 g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (extra)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions). Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute. Stir in flour, whisking constantly to form a roux. Slowly pour in warm milk and cream, whisking until smooth and thickened. Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Combine and Assemble: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix cooked pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce together. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until golden, bubbly, and cheesy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add more chili flakes.
- Can substitute chicken with cooked sausage or vegetables for a different flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg