Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne. This delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne made easy with creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta is a family favorite that comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe combines comfort food vibes with a touch of elegance that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules without sacrificing flavor.
• Rich & Creamy Sauce: The blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious, cheesy sauce that coats every bite.
• Versatile: Suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests with minimal fuss.
• Balanced Protein & Pasta: Tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta make a satisfying, complete meal.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your taste by adding veggies, spices, or altering the cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of simple, essential ingredients that come together to create a truly comforting dish. Each element plays a vital role, from the juicy chicken adding protein and texture, to the Parmesan delivering that signature savory punch.

• Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken for tender, easy-to-cook pieces.
• Penne pasta: Holds sauce well due to its tube shape, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic, savory depth.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that’s creamy and indulgent.
• Heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce without being overly heavy.
• Butter: Helps build flavor and richness in the sauce.
• Olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken to a golden brown.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness as a finishing touch.

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

One of the best things about this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you want to accommodate dietary preferences, add a burst of veggies, or change up the protein, these variations will keep your meals exciting.

• Veggie boost: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spicy kick: Include crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for added heat.
• Dairy-free version: Swap heavy cream and Parmesan for coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy yet vegan-friendly sauce.
• Different proteins: Try shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a new twist on the classic.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free penne pasta to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diners.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later if needed.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet along with the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Finish by seasoning with additional salt and pepper, then sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

• Use fresh Parmesan: It melts better and delivers superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking penne just al dente prevents it from becoming mushy when tossed in the sauce.
• Control heat carefully: Cook garlic gently to avoid bitterness and let the sauce thicken slowly for a silky finish.
• Rest chicken before slicing: Helps keep it juicy and tender in the final dish.
• Reserve pasta water: Adding a little starchy water helps loosen the sauce and improve coating.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne

Garnishes

Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil immediately brighten the dish’s appearance and flavor. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can elevate the presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls add a comforting carb to mop up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the dish in individual cast-iron skillets for an impressive, rustic presentation. Alternatively, plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a delicate, restaurant-style finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more with time, making it perfect for easy next-day meals.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that pasta texture may soften upon thawing. Portion the pasta into freezer-friendly containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to avoid scorching and ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are flavorful and tender, making them a great substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne is excellent for meal prepping because it stores well and reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, simply let it simmer a little longer or add a small amount of grated Parmesan, which will naturally thicken as it melts.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne is ideal because its tube shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly, but rigatoni or fusilli would also work well as alternatives.

Can I substitute heavy cream with milk?

You can use whole milk as a lighter option, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or creamy. Adding a bit of flour or cornstarch can help thicken the sauce if you choose milk.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that’s effortless, indulgently creamy, and packed with comforting flavors, it’s time to try this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne. With just a few simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that feels like a special occasion every time. Trust me, this recipe is sure to become a well-loved staple in your home cooking repertoire.

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