Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
This Creamy Crack Chicken Penne is a refined one-pan pasta dish featuring tender chicken, fresh asparagus, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Balanced, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant, it is ideal for a quick yet indulgent dinner that satisfies every craving.
Ingredients
- 8 oz 225 g penne pasta Classic pasta shape that holds sauce perfectly, ensuring each bite is rich and creamy.
- 1 tbsp olive oil Provides a smooth base for browning the chicken and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 lb 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced Tender and lean, ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to tasteBalances flavors and enhances the dish’s natural richness.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning A blend of herbs that imparts a subtle Mediterranean aroma.
- ½ onion finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor base.
- 2 cloves garlic minced Provides a warm, aromatic note essential for the sauce.
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced Contributes an earthy undertone that complements the cream.
- 1 cup asparagus chopped Lends freshness, texture, and a hint of vibrant green.
- ½ cup chicken broth Used to deglaze and infuse savory flavor into the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream Creates a luxurious velvety base for the pasta.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty salty richness and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
Optional: chopped parsley, for garnish Brings color and a hint of herbal freshness to finish.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving a small amount of the pasta water if needed to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook gently until softened and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Cook the Vegetables: Incorporate the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and lightly browned. Add the chopped asparagus and continue to cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, maintaining a slight crispness.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release the browned bits, which enhance the overall depth of flavor.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and allow it to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, until slightly thickened. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken and penne pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while warm. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, with each bite offering a balance of creamy texture, savory chicken, and crisp asparagus.
Notes
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding crumbled bacon just before serving—its smoky, salty crunch beautifully complements the creamy sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with evaporated milk or half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the chicken and replace the broth with vegetable stock.
When reheating leftovers, add a tablespoon of milk or broth to restore the silky texture of the sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a slice of warm garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Cholesterol | 140 mg |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Calcium | 220 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.