Creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of peppery heat, this Pepper-Parmesan Chicken Penne is a dream for pasta lovers. It brings together tender penne pasta, golden seared chicken, crisp bacon, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce—all speckled with freshly ground black pepper for a punch of flavor in every bite. It’s comfort food turned gourmet with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The richness of the sauce is balanced beautifully by the savory bacon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, making it feel indulgent yet homey. Whether you’re craving something cozy or need a quick crowd-pleaser, this creamy chicken penne hits all the right notes.
Ingredients for this Pepper-Parmesan Chicken Penne
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss well to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Fold in the crumbled bacon and sprinkle in the parsley. Season with additional pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and a generous twist of freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for added heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
Can I substitute the chicken?
Yes! Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu work well as substitutes for chicken.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can be used for a lighter version.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and make sure all packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the components (cook the pasta and chicken) ahead of time, but it’s best assembled fresh to preserve the creamy texture.
What vegetables can I add to this dish?
Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes would be great additions to boost nutrition and flavor.
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