Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Penne

Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Penne ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper

Watch how to make Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Penne

Follow the key cooking steps, then use the full instructions below for measurements and timing.

How to make Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Penne

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
2. While the pasta cooks, slice the 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1/2-inch thick cutlets or bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Pour in the 15 oz can of crushed tomatoes and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the drained penne pasta and the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water.
7. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
8. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

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