Creamy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata

The sizzle of chicken browning in a hot skillet can make your mouth water, and the aroma of garlic and tomatoes fills the air, promising a delightful meal. This creamy chicken penne arrabbiata dish is not only quick to prepare, taking around 30 minutes from start to finish, but it also combines comforting flavors with a spicy kick that works beautifully to satisfy your dinner cravings.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet simple. It’s also a great choice for gathering with friends or family. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days, making mealtime even easier.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creaminess of the sauce perfectly balances the heat from the red pepper flakes.
• Juicy chicken complements the al dente penne for a satisfying bite.
• You can prepare it in under 30 minutes for a quick dinner.
• It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious, homemade meal.

For the Pasta

• 8 oz penne pasta

For the Chicken

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Use low-fat cream for a lighter version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breasts can be swapped for turkey.
• Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half.
• Fresh basil can be substituted with parsley.
• Penne pasta can be interchanged with any pasta shape.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal.

1. Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

3. Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.

4. Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute to release the flavors.

5. Incorporate Tomatoes

Add the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Add Cream

Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss until coated, ensuring every piece is flavorful.

8. Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired for an extra touch of flavor.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, cream-based sauces don’t freeze well.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the chicken is diced uniformly for even cooking.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• For added depth, let the sauce simmer a bit longer.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a mixed greens salad for a refreshing side.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine to complement the flavors.