This skillet chicken penne pasta delivers bold Italian flavors along with wholesome, nutrient-packed ingredients. Featuring tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and hearty whole wheat pasta, this dish satisfies your cravings while supporting your health goals. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and nutrition, all ready in just 30 minutes.
We developed this recipe to show you that healthy cooking can be flavorful, quick, and family-approved. By combining lean protein with fiber-rich whole wheat penne and a fresh tomato-based sauce loaded with veggies, this dish ticks all the boxes for a nutritious homemade meal. Whether you’re managing your macros or just aiming to eat more balanced meals, this pasta will hit the spot!
Why This Skillet Chicken Penne Pasta Is Good for You
- Protein-packed: With lean chicken breast as the star, this dish provides a satisfying protein boost to keep you full and energized.
- Rich in fiber: Thanks to whole wheat penne and fresh vegetables like carrots and onions, this recipe supports digestion and gut health.
- Low in fat: Made with just a touch of olive oil, this pasta is figure-friendly without compromising on flavor.
- Loaded with antioxidants: The crushed tomatoes contribute lycopene, which supports heart health and immune function.
- Customizable for various diets: With a few simple swaps, this dish can be vegan, gluten-free, or keto-compatible.
Wholesome Ingredients for This Skillet Chicken Penne Pasta
We chose each ingredient with nutrition and flavor in mind. Here are some of the key components:
- Whole wheat penne: A fiber-rich alternative to traditional pasta, it keeps your blood sugar stable while providing a delightful nutty flavor. You can swap this for gluten-free penne if needed.
- Chicken breast: A lean protein source that cooks up tender and juicy. For a plant-based option, try cubed tofu or chickpeas.
- Crushed tomatoes: The base of the sauce, crushed tomatoes bring natural sweetness and a dose of vitamin C. Opt for low-sodium canned tomatoes to reduce salt intake.
- Fresh herbs: Parsley and basil infuse the dish with aromatic freshness. Use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available, but halve the quantity.
Skillet Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe Details
- Servings: 13 cups
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian
- Course: Entrees
- Nutrition (per serving): 134 kcal, 2g fat, 20g carbs, 7g protein
Skillet Chicken Penne Pasta Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 package (13 ounces) whole wheat penne
- For the Sauce:
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 large carrots, cut into half circles
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- ¼ cup minced flat-leaf parsley
- 4 basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, if desired
How to Make Skillet Chicken Penne Pasta
- Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken, season with ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes until just cooked through. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- For the sauce, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in the same skillet. Add the onion and carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and another ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the parsley and basil, then add the cooked chicken and penne back into the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
How to Customize This Skillet Chicken Penne Pasta for Your Diet
- Low-Carb/Keto: Swap the penne for zucchini noodles or shirataki pasta while keeping the sauce and chicken unchanged.
- Vegan: Replace chicken with diced tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free penne or chickpea pasta as a substitute for whole wheat penne.
- Higher Protein: Add extra chicken or stir in a cup of cooked lentils for an added protein punch.
- Lower-Calorie: Reduce the olive oil and use spiralized vegetables instead of pasta for a lighter option.
Our Team’s Tips for the Best Skillet Chicken Penne Pasta
- Meal prep bonus: This pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for weekly meal preps.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook just until it’s no longer pink to ensure it stays juicy.
- Boost veggie options: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
- Freeze the sauce: Make the sauce ahead and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just add freshly cooked chicken and pasta when reheating.
- Serving tip: Pair with a green side salad for a well-rounded meal.
Skillet Chicken Penne Pasta FAQs
Can I make this quick chicken penne recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be prepared and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Cook the pasta and chicken just before serving for the best texture.
What type of vegetables can I add to this healthy chicken pasta dish?
You can mix in any veggies you like! Mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or red bell peppers work wonderfully in this dish.
Is this homemade penne pasta dinner kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Its mild, flavorful sauce and tender chicken make it a hit with both kids and adults.
How do I reheat this easy skillet pasta with chicken?
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, stirring frequently.
Can I freeze this chicken penne pasta with vegetables?
You can freeze the sauce by itself for up to 3 months. Cooked pasta and chicken don’t freeze as well, so we recommend adding those when ready to serve.
This skillet chicken penne pasta proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to compromise on flavor. It’s quick, nutritious, and downright delicious. What’s your favorite way to elevate a simple pasta dish? Tell us in the comments!
Skillet Chicken Penne Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 package (13 ounces) whole wheat penne
- 2 teaspoons olive oil For the Sauce
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 large carrots, cut into half circles
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- ¼ cup minced flat-leaf parsley
- 4 basil leaves thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, if desired
Instructions
- Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken, season with ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes until just cooked through. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- For the sauce, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in the same skillet. Add the onion and carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and another ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the parsley and basil, then add the cooked chicken and penne back into the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.