Chicken Penne with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Chicken Penne with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Chicken Penne with Creamy Tomato Sauce – Easy One‑Pot Dinner

Looking for a simple yet satisfying pasta dinner? This Chicken Penne with Creamy Tomato Sauce combines tender chicken, savory tomato sauce, and a hint of cream—all tossed with penne pasta for a meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

A one-pan family favorite that's perfect for busy weeknights or easy entertaining.

Years back there was a restaurant around called Cooker that made this dish.  It is the #1 fav at my house!

I cook my chicken on an outdoor grill in the summertime; in cooler months I use a cast iron grill, but you can always just use a skillet.

To make a quick-easy dinner, everything is just thrown together, but if you wanted to be fancy you could place the chicken breast slices on top of the pasta and add some shredded parmesan and chopped parsley (like they do in restaurants!)

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal with minimal cleanup

• Ready in 30 minutes or less

• Flavorful tomato-cream sauce with tender chicken

• Budget-friendly, yet dinner-party worthy

• Freezer- and meal-prep friendly

Ingredients:

1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast
½ cup prepared Italian dressing
8 oz penne pasta (1/2 of a 1 lb. box)
1 cup heavy cream (whipping cream)
3 Tablespoons butter
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup prepared spaghetti sauce

Directions:

1.  Place chicken and Italian dressing in a bowl or a Ziploc bag to coat; let sit for 5 minutes.

2. Heat pan over medium heat.  Add chicken, cook for 15 to 20 minutes, turning once, until juice of the chicken is no longer pink when center of the thickest piece is cut.

3. Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes.  Cut into ½ inch slices.

4.  Cook penne pasta according to package directions; drain and return pasta to pan.

5.  In the pan with the pasta, add the cream, butter, parmesan cheese and salt.  Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened and creamy.

6.  Add the spaghetti sauce and cooked chicken; stir to combine.


Makes 4 servings

Tips for Best Results

• Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed into sauce.

• Use fresh cream or half-and-half for a light, velvety sauce.

• For a richer texture, stir in cream cheese or shredded mozzarella.

• Add spinach, peas, or basil at the end for freshness and color.

• Use chicken thighs for juicier results or rotisserie chicken to save prep time.

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Serving Suggestions

This creamy penne pairs well with:

• Garlic bread or cheesy focaccia

• Side salad dressed with vinaigrette

• Roasted or steamed vegetables

• Grilled veggie skewers or Caesar salad on the side

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FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely — shredded rotisserie chicken reduces cook time and is fully compatible with this recipe.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular penne with gluten-free pasta, and ensure your tomato sauce doesn't contain hidden gluten.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes — portion the pasta and sauce into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.