Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Penne Delight
Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Penne
This vibrant and comforting pasta dish features tender chicken breast slices, penne pasta, and a creamy roasted red pepper sauce that’s full of depth, flavor, and wholesome goodness. It’s a weeknight favorite that comes together quickly without compromising taste.
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk or dairy-free cream (or heavy cream if not dairy-free)
300g penne pasta
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: grated Parmesan or dairy-free cheese alternative
Instructions:
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onions until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Blend the red pepper sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine the sautéed onions and garlic, roasted red peppers, basil, chicken broth, and coconut milk or cream. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Simmer the sauce
Pour the sauce back into the skillet and let it simmer over low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Return the chicken to the pan and mix until well coated and heated through.
Combine with pasta
Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss to combine everything evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and optionally sprinkle with cheese or a dairy-free alternative. Serve hot and enjoy!