Creamy Penne Pasta with Seared Chicken and Tomatoes

Creamy Penne Pasta with Seared Chicken and Tomatoes is a rich, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, sweet roasted tomatoes, and penne pasta coated in a velvety cream sauce. It’s a restaurant-style meal you can easily prepare at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and fresh flavor in a single dish. The seared chicken provides a golden, juicy contrast to the creamy sauce, while the tomatoes add brightness and natural sweetness. It’s simple enough for weeknights but elegant enough for guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
penne pasta
chicken breast or thighs
cherry tomatoes, halved
garlic, minced
olive oil
heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
butter
fresh basil (optional)
salt
black pepper

Directions

1. Cook penne according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
4. Add cherry tomatoes; cook until softened and slightly caramelized.
5. Pour in heavy cream; simmer gently. Stir in Parmesan until sauce is smooth.
6. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Return chicken to the pan.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use shrimp instead of chicken.
• Add spinach or peas for extra veggies.
• Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Storage/reheating

Store in the refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.

FAQs

Can I use another pasta?

Yes, fusilli, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well.

Can I make it ahead?

Prepare components and combine when ready to serve.

Can I freeze it?

Not recommended — cream sauces may separate upon thawing.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta.

What herbs work best?

Basil, parsley, or oregano.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes, sauté with garlic.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

What cheese besides Parmesan works?

Asiago or Pecorino Romano.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

It will be thinner but still tasty.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered or add extra cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy Penne Pasta with Seared Chicken and Tomatoes is a satisfying, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to become a go-to favorite.

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