Description
Crac Chicken Penne is a quick and creamy American pasta dish featuring seasoned boneless chicken breasts cooked to perfection and served over tender penne pasta, all brought together with a rich, cheesy cream sauce. Ready in under 35 minutes, it makes a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pieces Chicken Breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or fresh garlic for bolder flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (fresh preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (fresh preferred)
For the Pasta
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred cooking oil)
- 12 oz Penne Pasta (any pasta shape can be used)
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted preferred)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated is preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil. Let the chicken marinate briefly if possible to enhance the flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce to coat evenly. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the pasta.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the entire dish for a pop of color and freshness. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- Any pasta shape can be swapped in place of penne.
- To add extra depth, sauté minced garlic in the butter before adding cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
