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Crazy Creamy Chicken Veggie Penne Pasta – Ultra Comfort in Every Bite

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A cozy and colorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and penne in a luxuriously creamy sauce—ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets or chopped zucchini
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half‑and‑half
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp sundried tomato paste or 1/4 cup chopped sun‑dried tomatoes (optional)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning or 2 tbsp fresh herbs (basil or parsley)

Instructions

  1. Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
  2. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and done. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and broccoli (or zucchini) until tender-crisp, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  4. Add chicken broth and cream. Scrape up brown bits, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in Parmesan and sundried tomato paste or chopped sun-dried tomatoes if using.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir in spinach or kale until wilted. Adjust seasoning.
  7. Add cooked penne and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce thickness as needed.
  8. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or pat of butter. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

Notes

  • Use shrimp, sausage, or tofu instead of chicken for variety.
  • Add mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
  • Use coconut milk or oat cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
  • Store leftovers up to 3 days and reheat with added broth or cream.

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