Pepper-Parmesan Chicken Penne

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This Pepper-Parmesan Chicken Penne is a luscious and hearty pasta dish that brings together the creaminess of Parmesan, the punch of cracked black pepper, and tender chunks of chicken. Each bite is laced with smoky bacon and coated in a velvety pepper cream sauce that clings to every piece of penne pasta. It’s comfort food with a touch of gourmet flair that fits perfectly into a weeknight dinner or an impromptu dinner party.

What sets this dish apart is the beautiful balance between rich and zesty. The freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle heat that contrasts wonderfully with the mellow, nutty Parmesan. Combined with crispy bacon and juicy seared chicken, this pasta is a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to return to again and again.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Penne is perfect for this dish because its tubular shape holds onto the creamy sauce well, ensuring flavor in every bite. You can substitute it with rigatoni or ziti if you prefer a slightly different texture. Avoid spaghetti or linguine here, as they don’t offer the same bite and sauce-holding power.

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Ingredients for the Pepper-Parmesan Chicken Penne

• Penne Pasta: The pasta base that soaks up the creamy, peppery sauce.
• Chicken Breast: Sliced thinly and seared until golden; it’s the protein star of the dish.
• Thick-cut Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty depth that enhances the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the luxurious texture of the sauce.
• Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Essential for that bold peppery flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds saltiness and a nutty richness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Sautéed for aromatic depth.
• Olive Oil & Butter: Used to sear the chicken and build the sauce.
• Salt & Parsley: For seasoning and garnish.

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How To Make the Pepper-Parmesan Chicken Penne

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Discard excess bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Season thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add olive oil and butter to the skillet and sear the chicken on medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. Add in cracked black pepper and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet, then add the drained penne. Stir to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy peppery goodness!

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Serving and Storing Your Pepper-Parmesan Chicken Penne

This pasta dish is best served fresh while the sauce is creamy and warm. Serve it in shallow bowls with extra Parmesan on the table and a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper on top. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and offer more flavor. Just ensure they’re boneless and cooked thoroughly.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of whole milk and a tablespoon of flour. The sauce will be slightly less rich but still delicious.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the cream sauce for extra heat.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as-is, but you can use gluten-free penne and ensure your bacon and Parmesan are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the components (cook the chicken and bacon, and grate the cheese) ahead to speed up the process.

What wine pairs well with this?

A chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully, balancing the creaminess with acidity.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Pepper-Parmesan Chicken Penne, you’ll want to try out these other comforting favorites from the Kitchen by Kate collection:

• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a bold, smoky kick.
• One Pot Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Delight with zesty lemon and pillowy gnocchi.
• Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Alfredo Tortellini for steakhouse flavors in one pan.
• One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles if you crave cozy and kid-friendly.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta that comes together in minutes.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavier on the pepper? Did you add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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