Recipe Details
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: 25 minutes
– Total time: 40 minutes
– Servings: 4
– Difficulty: Easy
– Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients
For the chicken
– 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the pasta
– 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups (300 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ medium red onion, finely chopped
– ½ teaspoon dried oregano
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
– ½ cup (120 ml) reserved pasta water
– ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, optional
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the chicken
1. Slice the chicken breasts horizontally into thinner pieces or strips.
2. Place in a bowl and add olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
4. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the penne pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the penne and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
3. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
4. Drain the pasta and set aside. Do not rinse it.
Step 3: Cook the chicken
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary.
3. Cook for about 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden and fully cooked.
4. Check that the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Transfer to a clean plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
Step 4: Sauté the garlic and vegetables
1. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil.
2. Add the chopped red onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes.
5. Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release some juice.
Step 5: Combine the pasta and sauce
1. Add the cooked penne to the skillet.
2. Pour in about ¼ cup of reserved pasta water and toss gently.
3. Add more pasta water a little at a time if needed to create a light, glossy coating.
4. Stir in the Parmesan, if using.
5. Taste and adjust the salt, black pepper, or lemon juice.
Step 6: Add the chicken and herbs
1. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet.
2. Toss gently until the chicken and pasta are coated with the tomato and garlic mixture.
3. Stir in the fresh parsley and basil.
4. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer the pasta to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra fresh parsley, basil, and Parmesan if desired. Serve warm with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings with Parmesan.
Nutrient Approximate amount
Calories 480–580 kcal
Protein 38–45 g
Carbohydrates 50–65 g
Fat 12–20 g
Fiber 4–7 g
Sodium 450–750 mg
Nutrition values vary depending on the pasta, chicken portion, cheese, and amount of oil used.
Nut Information & Allergens
– Peanuts: None intentionally included.
– Tree nuts: None intentionally included.
– Dairy: Contains Parmesan if added.
– Wheat/gluten: Regular penne pasta contains wheat.
– Eggs: Some pasta brands may contain eggs; check the label.
– Soy: May be present in some packaged pasta or seasonings.
Allergy precaution: Check all ingredient labels for allergens and cross-contact warnings. For a serious allergy, use ingredients verified safe for the person eating the meal.
Helpful Tips
– For juicy chicken: Avoid overcooking, and use a food thermometer.
– For more flavor: Add lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomatoes.
– For a creamier version: Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
– For extra vegetables: Add spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
– For a gluten-free version: Use certified gluten-free penne and verify all packaged seasonings.
– For meal prep: Divide into airtight containers and keep the Parmesan separate until serving.
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and have a richer flavor. Cook until they reach a safe internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes. Fusilli, rigatoni, farfalle, or rotini are good alternatives.
Q: Can I make this recipe without Parmesan?
Absolutely. Simply omit it or use a suitable dairy-free alternative. The reserved pasta water helps the sauce coat the pasta.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate within 2 hours in a covered container and use within 3–4 days. Reheat until steaming hot throughout, adding a splash of water if the pasta seems dry.
Q: Can I freeze this pasta?
You can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2 months for best quality. The tomatoes and pasta may soften after thawing, so freshly made pasta has the best texture.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus are excellent sides.
Enjoy your Garlic Herb Chicken Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes!
