Creamy Tomato Chicken Penne
This Creamy Tomato Chicken Penne is a cozy yet elegant Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish. Tender pan-seared chicken, silky tomato cream sauce, and al dente penne come together for a comforting meal that’s rich but balanced—not spicy, smooth, and family-friendly. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Pasta & Chicken
300 g penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (mild)
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Creamy Tomato Sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato passata or crushed tomatoes
½ cup heavy cream or cooking cream
¼ cup reserved pasta water
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Finish & Garnish
¼ cup grated parmesan
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Optional: baby spinach or mushrooms
Instructions
1. Cook Pasta
Boil penne in salted water until al dente.
Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook Chicken
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Saute 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Remove and set aside.
3. Make Creamy Tomato Sauce
In the same pan, add olive oil/butter.
Saute onion until soft (3–4 minutes).
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in tomato passata and simmer 5–7 minutes.
Add cream, pasta water, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Combine
Add cooked chicken and penne to the sauce.
Toss gently until well coated.
Stir in parmesan and optional spinach until just wilted.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra parmesan.
Notes & Tips
Use passata for the smoothest sauce.
For extra richness, add a spoon of cream cheese or mascarpone.
Swap cream with Greek yogurt or light cream for a healthier version.
Add mushrooms for more Mediterranean depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes—store in the fridge up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Can I make it without cream?
Yes—use evaporated milk or blended cottage cheese.
Is it spicy?
No—this recipe is mild and creamy, perfect for sensitive palates.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 4 g