Irresistible Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe

Indulging in a plate of creamy parmesan chicken with penne feels like being wrapped in a warm blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked penne pasta around your fork, each bite coated in a velvety sauce that dances on your taste buds. The aroma of garlic wafts through the air, teasing your senses and making your mouth water in anticipation.

This delightful dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience! I remember the first time I made creamy parmesan chicken with penne for my friends during a game night. As we laughed and debated over whose team would win, the comforting flavors of this dish brought everyone together, transforming our gathering into a feast of friendship and fun.

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts, adjusting for your crowd size. Ensure they’re fresh for best flavor.

• Penne Pasta: A classic choice; its shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Cook until al dente for the best texture.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves; they add aromatic depth to the sauce that’s simply irresistible.

• Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and dreamy. Opt for full-fat for richer flavor.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best! It melts beautifully and enhances that cheesy goodness.

• Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding a hint of flavor. Extra virgin is a great choice here.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth to the sauce.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

Start by cooking the pasta. Boil a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat, then add penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain it but save some pasta water for later.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the hot skillet. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through—about six minutes per side.

Once cooked, remove chicken from skillet and let it rest on a cutting board. In that same skillet (because who wants extra dishes?), add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute will do!

Next comes the star: pour in heavy cream while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of your pan. Stir in chicken broth as well; simmer for three minutes until slightly thickened.

Now it’s time for cheese magic! Gradually whisk in freshly grated parmesan until melted and smooth—be prepared for pure bliss! If your sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time.

Slice your rested chicken into strips or cubes—whatever floats your culinary boat—and toss it back into that creamy goodness along with the penne pasta. Mix well so every noodle gets coated in that luxurious sauce!

Finally, garnish with extra parmesan and cracked black pepper if desired before serving hot! This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a light salad if you want to pretend you’re being healthy while indulging in comfort food glory.

As you dig into this creamy parmesan chicken with penne, don’t forget to enjoy each bite! Let flavors mingle on your tongue as memories are created around your dinner table—just like mine!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While your chicken is cooking, boil the penne pasta until al dente. Finally, whip up the creamy sauce to blend everything into a harmonious masterpiece.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish! Swap penne for fusilli or add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also experiment with different cheeses or spices to match your taste preferences and pantry supplies.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to restore creaminess.

I remember the first time I made creamy Parmesan chicken with penne for my friends. Their delighted faces after the first bite made all the kitchen chaos worth it!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne?

To prepare Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne, you will need boneless chicken breasts, penne pasta, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include fresh parsley for garnish and red pepper flakes for a little heat. These ingredients combine to create a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

How long does it take to cook Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne?

Cooking Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. This includes preparing the ingredients, cooking the chicken and pasta, and allowing the sauce to thicken. With efficient prep work and multitasking in the kitchen, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time.

Can I make Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne ahead of time. Cook the chicken and pasta as directed but slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t become mushy when reheated. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the oven until heated through.

What can I serve alongside Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne?

Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy balance. Garlic bread also complements this dish beautifully. A light white wine can enhance the flavors of your meal, making it a delightful dining experience.

Conclusion for Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne:

Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is a delightful recipe that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich creamy sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes by adding vegetables or spices. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy making this comforting recipe that promises satisfaction in every bite!

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Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is a comforting, delicious dish that combines tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends, offering customizable flavors that accommodate any palate. With garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese taking center stage, every bite promises warmth and satisfaction. Whip up this crowd-pleaser in just 30 minutes, and enjoy the delightful blend of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through (about 6 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and let rest.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream and scrape up bits from the pan. Stir in chicken broth; simmer for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.
5. Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet along with the cooked penne. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
• Calories: 635
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Experiment with different cheeses or spices based on your preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.