Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Penne (Print Version)

Penne tossed with pumpkin cream sauce, chicken, sage, and walnuts for a comforting, autumn-inspired dinner.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta & Chicken

01 - 10 ounces penne pasta
02 - 2 cups cooked roasted chicken, shredded or cubed

→ Pumpkin Cream Sauce

03 - 1 tablespoon butter
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 3/4 cup pumpkin purée
06 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
07 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 1 teaspoon chopped fresh sage or 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
09 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Topping

10 - 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
11 - Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
12 - Fresh sage leaves, for garnish

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Boil penne in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
02 - In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the pumpkin purée and heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Add grated Parmesan and chopped sage. Stir until cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
04 - Add drained penne and roasted chicken to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to reach a creamy consistency.
05 - Plate the pasta and top with toasted walnuts, additional Parmesan, and fresh sage leaves if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Easy weeknight dinner on the table in thirty five minutes
  • Uses real pumpkin for flavor and nutrition
  • Great way to use leftover or rotisserie chicken
  • Cozy autumn vibes with just a few fresh ingredients
  • Satisfying creamy sauce that clings beautifully to pasta
02 -
  • Brimming with Vitamin A and protein for a balanced meal
  • Ideal for using up holiday poultry leftovers
  • Stays creamy even when reheated gently
03 -
  • Toast your walnuts in a dry pan on medium heat tossing frequently until you smell their rich aroma
  • Always use freshly cracked black pepper for the best pop of flavor in the finished dish
  • Do not skip salting the pasta water it really makes a difference and forms the base of every bite

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