Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy date night at home. This creamy pasta combines tender chicken and rich flavors, making it a standout meal. It’s quick to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Creamy Deliciousness: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich sauce that coats the penne perfectly.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your choice of vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on this delicious Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken, gather your kitchen tools to ensure smooth preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows you to cook the chicken evenly while making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Pot: Used for boiling the penne pasta, ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente before combining with the sauce.
- Colander: Essential for draining pasta quickly without losing any precious noodles.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
For Extras (Optional)
- 1/2 cup spinach (optional)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it in a colander and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter. Add diced chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Flavors
Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-6 minutes until it thickens.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add your cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat all of the pasta in that creamy sauce. If desired, stir in spinach and cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of flavor.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken!
How to Serve Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken
Serving Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken can elevate your mealtime experience. With a few creative touches, you can enhance the dish’s flavors and presentation.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the creamy pasta.
- Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and the savory Caesar dressing complement the richness of the pasta.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: These cheesy delights add a fun twist and go well with the pasta dish.
Include Seasonal Vegetables
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds color and a healthy touch.
- Sautéed Broccoli: Quick sautéing broccoli in olive oil enhances its flavor and provides a nutritious side.
How to Perfect Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken
Perfecting your Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure every bite is delicious.
- Bold Flavors: Don’t be shy about seasoning. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian herbs to taste for an extra flavor boost.
- Cream Consistency: To achieve the ideal creamy texture, let it simmer long enough for the sauce to thicken before adding pasta.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor impact in your dish.
- Cooking Pasta Al Dente: Cook your penne pasta just until al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce, preventing mushiness.
Best Side Dishes for Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken
Complementing your main dish with great sides can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair beautifully.
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—these potatoes add satisfying crunch.
- Steamed Green Beans: Simple yet effective; bright green beans offer a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing bite.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers protein while being easy on the palate.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil gives a burst of flavor without overwhelming.
- Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, feta, and cucumbers brings a delightful Mediterranean flair.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt and pepper generously when cooking your chicken.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking penne pasta for too long can result in a mushy texture. Follow package instructions closely and taste test a minute before the suggested time is up.
- Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality Parmesan can compromise the creamy sauce’s flavor. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer taste.
- Rushing the sauce: Skipping simmering time for the sauce may prevent it from thickening properly. Allow the sauce to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Neglecting optional ingredients: Omitting spinach or cherry tomatoes can reduce nutritional value and visual appeal. Consider adding these ingredients for extra flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken
- Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to label your containers with the date!
Reheating Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy, then stir until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta instead of penne?
You can definitely use other pasta shapes! Fusilli or rigatoni work well too, but cooking times may vary slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping.
How can I customize my Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You could also substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for chicken if preferred.
What’s the best way to make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free penne pasta and check that your chicken broth and Parmesan are gluten-free as well.
How do I ensure my sauce is creamy?
To keep your sauce creamy, make sure not to overheat after adding cheese. Stir gently until melted without boiling vigorously.
Final Thoughts
Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties—give it a try!
Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken
Penne Pasta with Garlic Parmesan and Creamy Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to your dinner table. This delightful recipe combines tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. With its quick preparation time of just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with fresh vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes, adding both nutrition and color. Plus, with the ease of one-pan cooking, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your delicious meal.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup spinach (optional)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken (5-6 minutes).
- Toss cooked penne into the skillet to coat in the sauce. Optionally add spinach or cherry tomatoes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: To enhance flavor, feel free to adjust seasonings based on your preference. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This dish can be made gluten-free by substituting with gluten-free penne.
