30-Minute Chicken Alfredo Penne Pasta
A creamy, protein-rich chicken pasta made in one pot, ready in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken and penne pasta combine with a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner your family will love.
Equipment
- 1 Dutch oven (large)
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 16 oz box penne pasta, uncooked
- 3 cups water
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup butter cut into large pieces
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley and extra Parmesan
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes each bite tender. Pat the chicken lightly with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear when cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken cubes in a bowl and season evenly with sea salt, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Toss gently to ensure every piece is coated with the spices. This step builds the foundational flavor for the dish.
- Heat the Cooking Oil: Set a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to warm for 1–2 minutes until it shimmers slightly. This ensures the chicken sears properly without sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the heated oil. Spread the pieces in a single layer to allow even browning. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. The edges should be lightly golden.
- Add the Penne Pasta: Pour the uncooked penne pasta into the pot with the cooked chicken. Use a spoon to gently press the pasta down so it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Pour in Water: Add 3 cups of water to the pot, ensuring the pasta is covered as much as possible. Place the lid on the pot, increase the heat to medium-high, and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir the pasta frequently during this stage to prevent sticking and to help it cook evenly.
- Monitor Pasta Softening: Once the pasta begins to soften, remove the lid. Check the texture of the penne by tasting a piece; it should be starting to soften but still have a firm bite. This step is crucial to avoid overcooking.
- Incorporate Butter and Cream: Reduce the heat slightly to medium-low. Add ½ cup of butter, cut into large pieces, and 1.5 cups of heavy cream to the pot. Stir gently but continuously to melt the butter and blend it fully with the cream, creating a smooth, rich base for your Alfredo sauce.
- Add Nutmeg and Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine. The nutmeg enhances the creaminess with a subtle, warm flavor, while the Parmesan adds depth and a savory note. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the pasta is fully cooked to your preferred level of al dente.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Remove the pot from heat and taste the pasta. Adjust with additional salt or pepper if needed to suit your preference. This ensures the flavors are perfectly balanced.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the creamy Chicken Alfredo Penne Pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a visually appealing and flavorful presentation. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- This Chicken Alfredo Penne Pasta creates a thick, creamy sauce; for a lighter texture, simply add a bit more heavy cream or milk while cooking.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese significantly enhances the flavor and texture compared to pre-grated options.
- The recipe is high in protein and moderate in healthy fats, making it a filling, family-friendly meal.
- Stir frequently when cooking the pasta with cream and butter to prevent sticking and ensure an evenly creamy sauce.
- Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for extra fiber and nutrients.