Creamy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata (35-Minutes)

Craving a pasta dish that’s both spicy and creamy?

Look no further than Creamy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata.

This dish takes the classic Arrabiata sauce, known for its fiery kick, and mellows it out with a rich, velvety creaminess. The result is a perfect balance of heat and indulgence in every bite.

Arrabbiata means “angry” in Italian, referring to the bold spice level from red pepper flakes. However, adding cream creates a smooth texture that balances the heat, making it enjoyable for those who love spice but also appreciate a creamy pasta.

This dish is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata

To make this dish, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients:

For the Pasta and Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and black pepper to season

For the Arrabbiata Sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

For the Creamy Finish:

• ¾ cup heavy cream (or cream cheese for extra richness)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

How to Make Creamy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Season chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
• Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Prepare the Arrabbiata Sauce

• In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed.
• Sauté garlic and onions until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stir in red pepper flakes and oregano, cooking for another 30 seconds.
• Add tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, then pour in chicken broth.
• Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.

4. Make It Creamy

• Lower the heat and slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine.
• Add Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning with more salt or red pepper flakes if needed.

5. Toss Everything Together

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
• Add the drained pasta, tossing everything together until evenly coated.
• If needed, use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce for a silkier consistency.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
• Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Penne Arrabbiata

• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add more or incorporate Calabrian chili paste.
• Choose the right cream: Heavy cream gives the best texture, but cream cheese or half-and-half can be used for a slightly different consistency.
• Enhance the sauce: For a deeper umami flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
• Storage & reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore consistency.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Side Dishes:

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• Caesar salad or Caprese salad
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus

Click here for more side dishes.

Wine Pairings:

• A bold Chianti or Zinfandel complements the spice
• A creamy Chardonnay balances the heat and richness

Make It a Complete Meal:

• Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth
• Stir in baby spinach for extra nutrients

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and skip the Parmesan.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for mushrooms, chickpeas, or tofu.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of penne.
• Protein Boost: Add shrimp or Italian sausage for extra flavor.

Recipe FAQ’s

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the red pepper flakes to ¼ teaspoon or omit them altogether. You can also add more cream to mellow out the spice.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop and add freshly cooked pasta.

Can I freeze this dish?

The sauce freezes well for up to 2 months, but pasta can become mushy when frozen. If you plan to freeze, store the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.