Description
Looking for an easy dinner that delivers big flavor? This Tomato and Chicken Pasta Delight is the creamy, hearty comfort food your weeknight needs. Juicy chicken breast, rich tomato cream sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta come together in a one-pan wonder that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. It’s one of the best quick dinner ideas for families and a standout among creamy pasta recipes. Whether you’re after a cozy dinner or next-day leftovers that actually taste better, this easy recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, diced
12 oz penne pasta
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken pieces until cooked through and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Return chicken to skillet. Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Toss until everything is well coated in sauce.
5. Top with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
Use chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat.
To reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, chicken pasta, weeknight meal, quick pasta recipe