Chicken Parmesan with Penne (easiest ever!)

My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Chicken Parmesan with Penne

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and after-school activities, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've developed a love for quick, easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Chicken Parmesan with Penne recipe has become my absolute weeknight go-to, a true lifesaver on those hectic evenings.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Forget complicated techniques and fussy ingredient lists. This recipe uses readily available ingredients – breaded chicken breasts (saving me precious prep time!), canned fire-roasted tomatoes, and simple pantry staples. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheese is irresistible. The penne pasta cooks perfectly within the sauce, absorbing all those delicious flavors.

I typically start by preheating the oven and preparing the sauce while the chicken is baking. I love using fire-roasted tomatoes for their intense flavor; they add a depth of taste that you just can't get from regular canned tomatoes. A quick pulse in the food processor ensures a smooth, yet slightly chunky, sauce consistency. Then it's simply a matter of simmering the pasta and sauce together, adding the chicken and cheese, and popping it into the oven. In under 30 minutes, I have a hot, comforting, and incredibly flavorful dinner on the table – a feat that always impresses even the pickiest eaters in my family.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add some vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or use different types of pasta. The possibilities are endless! Sometimes I swap out the penne for rotini or even use gluten-free pasta for my daughter, who has dietary restrictions. But regardless of what modifications I make, the core recipe remains the same: quick, easy, and overwhelmingly delicious.

This Chicken Parmesan with Penne isn't just a weeknight lifesaver; it's a crowd-pleaser. I've served this dish at countless gatherings, from casual family dinners to more formal gatherings with friends. Everyone always raves about its simplicity and incredible taste, often asking for the recipe. And that's the highest compliment a busy working mom can receive – a simple, delicious meal that leaves everyone happy and satisfied, without consuming my entire evening. It's the perfect testament to the fact that delicious doesn't have to be complicated, especially when you're short on time. So, next time you're facing a busy weeknight, reach for this recipe. You won't regret it.

Tips for Success:

• Use good quality Italian cheese for the best flavor.
• Don't overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
• If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the pasta and sauce to a baking dish.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra kick.
• Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.

This Chicken Parmesan with Penne is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple, delicious meals that bring people together. It’s a recipe I'll continue to cherish, not only for its ease and deliciousness, but for the memories it creates around the dinner table – memories made all the more precious thanks to a quick, easy, and surprisingly satisfying dinner.

Step-by-step

• Bake chicken according to package instructions; let cool slightly and slice crosswise into ½ inch-wide strips.
• Heat oven to 475 degrees.
• Meanwhile, pulse tomatoes in food processor until coarsely ground and no large pieces remain.
• Cook oil, garlic, oregano, pepper flakes and ½ tsp. salt in a 12-inch oven-safe nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Stir in processed tomatoes, water, 1 cup broth and pasta.
• Cover and cook at a vigorous simmer, stirring often, until pasta is tender, about 15 minutes.
• Stir in remaining ½ cup broth.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Scatter sliced chicken evenly over top and sprinkle with cheese.
• Transfer skillet to oven and bake until cheese has melted and chicken is crisp, 5 to 10 minutes.
• Sprinkle with basil and serve.