Creamy Chicken Penne with Herb-Spiced Sear Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that brings together comforting creaminess and a flavorful, herb-infused sear, the Creamy Chicken Penne with Herb-Spiced Sear Recipe is going to win your heart and your dinner table. This recipe masterfully combines tender chicken breasts seasoned with a vibrant mixture of herbs and spices, seared to perfection, and baked to juicy goodness. Then, it all comes together in a luscious, cheesy sauce that clings beautifully to perfectly cooked penne pasta. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend indulgence, this dish packs so much satisfying flavor and texture, you’ll be making it again and again without hesitation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to whip up this Creamy Chicken Penne with Herb-Spiced Sear Recipe is delightfully simple thanks to a handful of essential ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, from the aromatic herbs that elevate the chicken to the creamy sauce that makes the pasta irresistible.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast: The foundation of the dish, ensure it’s fresh for the juiciest results.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of mild heat and depth.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a rich, savory background note.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a subtle sweetness and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky warmth and beautiful color.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses the chicken with fragrant Mediterranean flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Introduces a sweet and slightly peppery herbaceous touch.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
• 1 pound penne pasta: Perfect to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and silkiness to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient that makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives depth, saltiness, and that irresistible cheesy flavor.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbaceous punch.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Penne with Herb-Spiced Sear Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 375°F. This ensures the perfect environment to finish cooking your beautifully seared chicken while locking in moisture and flavor.

Step 2: Mix Your Spice Blend

In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil. This fragrant blend is the secret behind your chicken’s irresistible herb-spiced sear.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Generously coat both sides of the chicken breasts with the spice mixture. Press it in gently so every bite bursts with the carefully crafted blend.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the hot oil and sear until each side is golden brown—about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step builds amazing flavor and locks in juices.

Step 5: Bake to Cook Through

Transfer your skillet right into the preheated oven. Let the chicken bake for 20 to 25 minutes until fully cooked, juicy, and tender. This finish balances the crispy sear with gentle heat.

Step 6: Prepare the Penne

While the chicken bakes, cook your penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. The slightly firm texture holds up perfectly when tossed with the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Rest and Slice the Chicken

Once baked, let your chicken rest for a few minutes. This step is key to keeping the meat juicy. After resting, slice the chicken into beautiful strips ready to crown your pasta.

Step 8: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet you cooked your chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Keep it moving until the sauce thickens into that dreamy, velvety texture we all crave.

Step 9: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your cooked penne directly into the sauce. Toss everything together so each piece of pasta is luxuriously coated in that herb-infused creaminess.

Step 10: Plate and Serve

Dish out your creamy pasta onto plates and gently lay sliced chicken breasts over the top. This presentation not only looks stunning but ensures every forkful delivers a bit of everything.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Penne with Herb-Spiced Sear Recipe

Garnishes

Finishing touches are everything. Sprinkle additional fresh parsley and a bit more grated Parmesan over the dish for vibrant color and a fresh, cheesy kick. A drizzle of good olive oil can add a silky shine that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

This dish is divine on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich creaminess. A warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try serving your Creamy Chicken Penne with Herb-Spiced Sear Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a sprig of fresh thyme or basil on top. Layering the pasta, chicken, and sauce in a clear glass casserole makes for a stunning, shareable centerpiece that invites everyone to dive in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the chicken moist, place it over the pasta rather than stirring it back into the sauce until reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked chicken and sauce with pasta separately in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Make sure to cool everything completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen it up. Microwaving works too but do so in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle would also work wonderfully in this dish.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream to reduce richness, but keep in mind the sauce will be less thick and creamy. Also, consider using less butter or swapping it for olive oil.

Can I prepare the spice mix ahead of time?

Yes! Mixing the herbs and spices in advance and storing them in an airtight container makes seasoning the chicken quick and easy when you’re ready to cook.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No worries. You can sear the chicken in a regular skillet, then transfer it to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part—juices should run clear and the meat should be opaque all the way through.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a dish that feels indulgent but is so easy to make, and the Creamy Chicken Penne with Herb-Spiced Sear Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself on a cozy night in, this recipe delivers layers of flavor and comforting textures that will quickly become a beloved classic. So grab those ingredients, and let’s start cooking your new favorite dinner!

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