Creamy Baked Chicken Penne
Some dinners just feel like comfort. This Creamy Baked Chicken Penne is one of those warm, cozy, “everyone’s going back for seconds” kind of meals — the type you make when you want something hearty and soothing without getting too fancy.
You’ve got tender penne pasta wrapped in a creamy, velvety sauce that’s part white sauce, part marinara (aka the best of both worlds). Add juicy chicken, a little garlic, a sprinkle of spices, and then the real magic: a cheesy top that bakes into bubbly, golden perfection. When you pull it from the oven, it’s all soft steam and melted cheese with those toasty edges that people fight over.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you want dinner to feel like a hug.
Ingredients
12 ounces penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside — future you will thank you.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until just al dente (you want it a tiny bit firm since it’ll bake).
Drain and set it aside.
3. Start the Cream Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it smells amazing.
Stir in the butter and let it melt completely.
4. Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter. Whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. This step is what gives the sauce that creamy, thick texture — and it only takes a minute.
5. Add the Milk and Cream
Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Keep whisking as you pour so you don’t get lumps.
Let the sauce cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens into a silky, spoon-coating consistency.
6. Season and Add Flavor
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, plus salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2–3 minutes so everything blends together into that creamy tomato goodness.
7. Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked chicken and drained penne to the skillet. Stir gently until every piece is coated and glossy with sauce.
8. Assemble the Bake
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the mozzarella over the top, then finish with Parmesan. It’ll look like a lot of cheese — that’s exactly right.
9. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Those browned spots on top? Absolute perfection.
10. Rest and Serve
Let the pasta bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving. It’ll set up slightly and be easier to scoop.
Top with chopped parsley if you like, and serve warm.
Presentation
Serve this straight from the baking dish for that cozy, family-style feel — it’s one of those meals that looks extra inviting right out of the oven.
For a pretty finish, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and add a little extra Parmesan at the table. If you want to make it feel “restaurant-y,” serve it in wide bowls with a small side salad and warm garlic bread (because that sauce deserves to be soaked up).
Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
🔥 Kcal: Approximately 550 kcal per serving | 🍽️ Servings: 6 servings
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Chicken Penne is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your rotation — comforting, simple, and reliably delicious. It’s cheesy, creamy, and just saucy enough, with tender chicken and that golden baked top that makes everyone excited to eat.
If you’ve got pasta, chicken, and a little cheese, you’re already halfway there — and this is one of those dishes you’ll be glad you made. Try it soon, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to cozy dinner.