Creamy Chicken Penne Vodka Pasta Recipe: Easy 30-Minute U.S. Dinner in 2025

In 2025, home-cooked comfort food is trending more than ever, especially across U.S. households from Seattle to Miami. If you're looking for a creamy, satisfying pasta dish that feels gourmet but is easy enough for a weeknight, this Chicken Penne Vodka Pasta is the answer.

This 30-minute recipe blends the richness of a tomato vodka sauce with juicy chicken and tender penne pasta. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

What Is Chicken Penne Vodka Pasta?

Chicken Penne Vodka Pasta is a modern spin on the classic Italian-American "penne alla vodka," made more filling with the addition of seasoned chicken breast. It's creamy, tangy, and cheesy—a perfect balance of comfort and flavor.

Originating in Italian-American kitchens in the Northeast, it's now loved nationwide in states like Texas, California, and Illinois for its versatility and restaurant-like taste at home.

Ingredients List (2025 U.S. Store Options)

Main Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta (Barilla, De Cecco, or Kroger brand)

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

• 1 tbsp olive oil (California Olive Ranch)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Vodka Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 yellow onion, finely diced

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/3 cup vodka (Tito's or use chicken broth as substitute)

• 1.5 cups crushed tomatoes (Rao's, Muir Glen)

• 1 cup heavy cream (Organic Valley)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (BelGioioso or Kirkland)

Optional Add-ins:

• Baby spinach

• Sliced mushrooms

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Large nonstick skillet or Dutch oven

• Medium pot for pasta

• Colander

• Cheese grater

• Wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Boil salted water and cook penne until al dente (10-11 minutes).

• Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

• Season chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes until browned.

• Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Vodka Sauce

• In the same pan, melt butter. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes.

• Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds.

• Pour in vodka and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

• Add tomatoes and cook for 4 minutes.

• Lower heat, stir in cream and Parmesan.

• Return chicken to the sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

• Toss cooked pasta into the sauce.

• Adjust consistency with pasta water.

• Garnish and serve.

Expert Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoother melting.

• Simmer vodka to remove alcohol before adding cream.

• Add pasta water in small amounts to adjust sauce.

Variations by U.S. Region

• California: Add spinach and use organic cream.

• Texas: Add Cajun seasoning for heat.

• Florida: Use shrimp instead of chicken.

• New York: Use fresh basil and top with burrata.

Read also: Jordan Asia Food Guide (2025): 7 Must-Try Dishes You Can’t Miss

What to Serve With It

• Garlic bread

• Caesar salad

• Roasted green beans or asparagus

• Red or white wine (Josh Cellars, Kendall-Jackson)

Nutrition (Per Serving - Estimated)

Source: USDA FoodData Central, adjusted per ingredient brand averages

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding cream too early → curdles the sauce

• Skipping vodka simmer → strong taste remains

• Overcooking chicken → becomes dry

• Using shaker cheese → sauce turns gritty

Where to Try It in Restaurants (2025)

• Olive Garden: Substitute grilled chicken in their vodka sauce pasta

• Maggiano’s Little Italy: Seasonal creamy penne dishes

• Local Italian-American bistros in NYC, LA, and Chicago often feature versions

Final Thoughts

This creamy chicken penne vodka pasta is a great meal when you want something tasty but simple. In cities like Houston and Portland, many busy families make this pasta for fast and filling dinners. In Ohio and Colorado, people enjoy it on cold nights as a warm comfort food. In Arizona, some add spicy chipotle to make it hotter. In Massachusetts, many people top it with extra cheese and eat it with garlic bread. No matter where you live in the U.S., this pasta is easy to make, can be changed to fit your taste, and makes everyone happy at the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip vodka?

Yes. Use chicken broth instead.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes. Alcohol cooks off if simmered properly.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes. Omit chicken and add mushrooms or spinach.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently.