Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta recipe while traveling through the Caribbean, where fresh ingredients and bold flavors are abundant. After perfecting it in my kitchen, I've made it a staple for family gatherings. It's a dish that brings everyone together, offering a taste of the islands with each bite."

With over a decade of experience in Caribbean cuisine, Chef Mitchell has mastered the art of infusing vibrant flavors into every dish. His passion for cooking is evident in the delicious recipes he creates, making him a trusted source for dinner inspiration.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta served on a plate

Why This Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe Works

This Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta recipe stands out for its balance of flavors and textures. The combination of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying meal that is rich and comforting. The twist of Caribbean spices adds a unique dimension, making it a memorable dish.

The technique of marinating the chicken not only enhances its flavor but also ensures it remains juicy and tender when grilled. Sautéing the vegetables until they're just tender retains their freshness and crunch, making each bite delightful.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, allow your chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or even overnight. This will enhance the flavors and make the chicken even juicier when grilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the grilled chicken and pasta in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine with the sauce and vegetables.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk, but keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different.

The dish is done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the pasta is tender yet firm to the bite. The sauce should be creamy and well-combined with the pasta.

Yes, you can freeze the Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with a tropical fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

In the refrigerator, Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta will last for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Yes, you can prepare the grilled chicken and pasta in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and combine them with the sauce and vegetables just before serving to maintain the best texture.

The best way to reheat Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta is on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring in between.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The pasta may turn out dry if there isn’t enough sauce or if it has been overcooked.

Solution: Add a little more cream or broth to the pasta before serving to hydrate it. Always monitor cooking times to ensure the pasta is cooked just right.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The chicken may not develop a crispy exterior if it's not grilled at a high enough temperature.

Solution: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high before adding the chicken. You can also sear the chicken in a hot pan for a few minutes before transferring it to the grill.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove the chicken from the grill once it reaches 165°F.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the chicken is undercooked in the center, it may pose a food safety risk.

Recovery: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces and return it to the grill or pan, cooking until fully cooked through. Always check the internal temperature.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The chicken may burn if left on the grill for too long or if the heat is too high.

Prevention: To avoid burning, keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks. Move it to a cooler part of the grill if it starts to char.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the dish is too salty, add a bit of sugar or more cream to mellow the saltiness.

Bland: If the dish is bland, enhance the flavor with more spices, herbs, or a sprinkle of salt.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta

The key ingredients in this recipe include juicy chicken breast, al dente penne pasta, and a variety of fresh vegetables. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. For the sauce, heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a rich and creamy base.

Quality ingredients make all the difference. Opt for fresh, organic vegetables and high-quality chicken for the best flavor. Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will enhance the dish's creaminess and taste.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein option. Marinating the chicken not only adds flavor but also helps keep it juicy during grilling.
  • Penne Pasta: Penne pasta is ideal for this recipe due to its shape, which holds onto the sauce beautifully. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables not only enhances the dish's appeal but also adds nutritional value. Bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes are excellent choices.
Cooking process for Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta is a straightforward process that involves marinating, grilling, and combining fresh ingredients. The key is to prep your ingredients ahead of time for smooth cooking.

By following the steps carefully and paying attention to cooking times, you can achieve perfectly grilled chicken and creamy pasta every time. Enjoy the delicious results with family and friends!

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta

The most important technique in this recipe is the marination of the chicken, which infuses it with flavor and keeps it juicy while grilling. Additionally, managing the grilling temperature is crucial for crispy, golden chicken.

Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For a creamy sauce
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
    Chopped for garnish
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
    For a spicy kick
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 2 cups penne pasta
    Cooked al dente
  • 1 cup bell peppers
    Sliced
  • 1 cup zucchini
    Sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • 1/2 cup onion
    Diced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    For marinating
  • 3 cloves garlic
    Minced

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken

    In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

  2. Cook the Pasta

    Boil water in a large pot. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. Grill the Chicken

    Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until cooked through. Remove and let rest.

  4. Sauté the Vegetables

    In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender.

  5. Combine Ingredients

    In the skillet, add the cooked pasta, grilled chicken (sliced), heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.

  6. Season and Garnish

    Season the pasta mixture with cayenne pepper and additional salt if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

  7. Serve

    Serve the Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta warm on plates. Enjoy your meal!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served warm, garnished with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese. Pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

For a twist, try adding different vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms. You can also substitute the grilled chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.