Welcome back to another installment of “I can’t make anything without adding cheese.”
It’s true — not that it comes as a surprise.
I try to resist. I really do. And then… well, I fail.
Everything is just better with cheese. So much better.
This dish is one of those quick throw-together meals that uses whatever you have in the fridge, and I’m almost embarrassed to share it because it’s so simple. But with the holiday rush and the season of “cookies for dinner,” quick, comforting meals deserve a spotlight. Especially when they leave leftovers and buy you more time for baking. Spoiler: I’m all about cookie baking. Mmmm.
30 Minute Baked Chicken Penne
Leave a Review »
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound whole wheat penne
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 red onion, chopped
- 1/2 green pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 (14 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup cream
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions.
-
While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika and dried basil. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Sauté the red onion and peppers with a pinch of salt until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir briefly.
-
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook until browned on one side, about 5–6 minutes, then flip and brown the other side for another 5–6 minutes. Reduce the heat and stir in the diced tomatoes, cream and grated parmesan, mixing until well combined. Add the drained penne and toss to coat.
-
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the top, and bake for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the pasta is heated through. Serve immediately, with extra grated cheese if desired.
Did you make this recipe?
Be sure to follow @howsweeteats on Instagram and tag #howsweeteats. You can also share a photo on the Facebook page.
Thank you — I appreciate you!
I’d promise no cheese tomorrow, but… you know me better than that.