Penne with Chicken and Gruyère

Name: Penne with Chicken and Gruyère
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 300 g penne pasta (uncooked); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 450 g chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 teaspoon salt (divided); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 200 g Gruyère cheese (grated); 250 ml heavy cream; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped); 1 tablespoon butter

50 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Deliciously creamy penne pasta with tender chicken and melted Gruyère cheese.

Prep

20 min

Cook

25 min

Total

50 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Penne with Chicken and Gruyère is a comforting dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with creamy, melted Gruyère cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, offering a delightful combination of flavours and textures that everyone will love. The origins of this dish can be traced back to the rich and hearty cuisine of France, where cheese is often used to enhance the flavour of simple ingredients. Gruyère, a smooth-melting cheese, provides a nutty and slightly sweet taste that pairs beautifully with the mild flavour of chicken and the robust texture of penne.

Instructions

Cook the Penne

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Pro tip: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.

Pro tip: Do not let the garlic brown as it can become bitter.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with remaining salt and thyme.

Pro tip: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water by tablespoon until desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked penne and chicken to the sauce. Toss well to coat everything evenly.

Pro tip: Ensure all pasta is coated with the sauce for maximum flavour.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional Gruyère if desired, and bake for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

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Tips & Tricks

Use freshly grated Gruyère for better melting.
Cook pasta al dente as it will continue to cook when baked.
Season chicken well before cooking for enhanced flavour.
Let the dish rest before serving for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is penne au poulet?

Penne au poulet is a pasta dish featuring penne pasta combined with chicken and a creamy sauce, often with cheese.

How do you make penne au poulet?

Cook penne, prepare chicken and sauce, combine all ingredients, and bake for a delicious creamy dish.

What cheese goes well with penne au poulet?

Gruyère cheese is perfect for penne au poulet, adding a creamy, nutty flavour.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli.

How long does it take to bake penne au poulet?

Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delectable penne dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the rich flavours beautifully. Make ahead by preparing the dish up to the baking step, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Nutrition per serving

680

Calories

40g

Protein

35g

Fat

A luscious and comforting creamy chicken lasagna perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Medium80 min

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