Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as delightful as it is delicious? Introducing Penne Rosa with Parmesan Crusted Chicken—a creamy, dreamy Italian masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests! With its rich marinara sauce, perfectly cooked penne, and crispy Parmesan chicken, this recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience! In just under an hour, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Ready to dive into the culinary magic? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups chicken breast, cooked and sliced
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of penne pasta, 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 2 cups of cooked and sliced chicken breast, and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the Parmesan crust for the chicken. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Take the cooked and sliced chicken breast and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of each piece of chicken, pressing down slightly to adhere.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the Parmesan crusted chicken in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and crispy.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the marinara and cream sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.
- After the chicken has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into strips or leave it whole, as preferred.
- To serve, divide the Penne Rosa among four plates, placing the sauce-coated pasta in the center. Top each serving with the Parmesan crusted chicken.
- Finish by garnishing with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Penne Rosa with Parmesan Crusted Chicken!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to salt your boiling water generously before adding the penne. This is your chance to season the pasta from the inside out, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.
- Chicken Prep: For the crispiest Parmesan crust, ensure your chicken is cooked and sliced evenly. This allows for even cheese coverage and a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Creamy Sauce: If you find your marinara sauce too thick, don’t hesitate to use that reserved pasta water! It not only adjusts the consistency but also helps the sauce cling beautifully to the penne.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a burst of freshness and color to your dish, making it look as good as it tastes.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta for a quick weeknight dinner!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 120mg
