Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy pasta dish to bring comfort to your dinner table. This Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is a rich, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken, a luscious parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta creates a dish that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare.

This recipe is one of those go-to meals that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just craving a bowl of creamy goodness, this dish is sure to hit the spot. With its smooth, cheesy sauce and juicy chicken, every bite is packed with flavor.

Let’s dive into this delicious, creamy pasta dish that will become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Comforting: The velvety parmesan sauce coats the penne perfectly, making every bite rich and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together quickly, making this a great meal for any night of the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, creamy flavors.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: This dish tastes like something you’d get at your favorite Italian restaurant, but it’s made in your own kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 12 ounces penne pasta
• ½ cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Next, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream and milk, letting it simmer gently for a couple of minutes.

Slowly add in the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy parmesan sauce. Then, add the drained penne pasta, tossing everything together until well combined. Let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld together.

If you like a little spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight!

Helpful Tips for the Best Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan may not melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese, so it’s best to grate it yourself for a silky sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente so it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or extra milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a couple of extra minutes.
• Season to Taste: Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra black pepper or a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Non-vegetarian

Notes

• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – For the smoothest, creamiest sauce, avoid pre-packaged grated cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the flavor.
• Cook Pasta to Al Dente – Since the pasta will continue absorbing the sauce, slightly undercooking it ensures it stays firm and doesn’t become mushy.
• Control the Sauce Thickness – If your sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little extra milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
• Customize the Dish – Add veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
• Make It Spicier – If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Use Chicken Thighs Instead – If you prefer juicier chicken, swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
• Serving Suggestion – This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Leftovers Tip – When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to keep the sauce from drying out.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
• Freezing: While you can freeze this dish, the sauce may separate slightly when thawed. If you do freeze it, reheat slowly and stir well to bring back the creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! While penne is great for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can also use fettuccine, rigatoni, or even bowtie pasta.

What can I add to this dish?
For extra flavor and texture, try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.

Can I make this dish lighter?
If you want to reduce the richness, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use more milk in place of some of the cream.

How do I make it spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne, you might also enjoy:

• Garlic Butter Beef Sausage Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
• Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne – A Rich and Comforting Classic!
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni with Parmesan Sauce

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. The creamy parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta create a dish that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

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