If you crave a dish that’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, you are going to fall in love with this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Recipe. It perfectly balances tender chicken pieces tossed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, coating every bite of al dente penne pasta. This recipe brings together simple ingredients that explode with warmth and satisfy those pasta night cravings, making it a go-to classic you’ll want to share with everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these straightforward ingredients that play vital roles in building layers of flavor, texture, and color to this delightful dish. Each element contributes to the creamy, garlicky, and savory experience that makes this recipe so irresistible.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Provides the perfect shape and texture to hold onto the creamy sauce.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Tender protein cut into bite-sized pieces for juicy, flavorful bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds depth and helps achieve a beautiful golden sear on the chicken.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): The star flavor that infuses the sauce with its aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Brings richness and a silky finish to the sauce.
- 1½ cups heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously creamy texture that cloaks the pasta and chicken.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and balances the creaminess with light stock flavor.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts the flavor profile with a sharp and nutty character while thickening the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Offers an herbal blend that complements the garlic and chicken beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right touch of mild heat.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): For a fresh pop of color and subtle herbaceous note.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by boiling water and cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. This ensures that your pasta will offer the perfect bite and texture, able to hold up well under the creamy sauce. Drain and set aside, keeping it warm for when you combine everything later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for that subtle herbaceous twist. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, letting it develop a golden crust while sealing in the juices. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set it aside carefully to avoid drying out.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Cream Sauce
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 to 60 seconds just until the aroma of garlic fills the kitchen — be careful not to let it brown too much or become bitter. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan; these little morsels are flavor gold! Then stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Thicken
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until it melts smoothly into the sauce, causing it to thicken nicely in about 3 to 5 minutes. This step transforms the sauce into a rich, velvety coating that clings perfectly to pasta and chicken alike.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken and penne to the skillet, tossing everything together to fully coat all the pieces with that incredible creamy garlic sauce. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and everything is heated through, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled over the top adds a lovely pop of vibrant green color and a hint of freshness that balances the rich sauce beautifully. If you like, a little extra Parmesan or a dusting of cracked black pepper can also enhance the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This creamy garlic chicken penne pairs wonderfully with crisp steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to cut through the richness. A light mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette also complements the dish wonderfully, offering a refreshing contrast to the indulgence on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining or family dinners, try serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch. Alternatively, pile the creamy penne over grilled bread or inside hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, fun way to enjoy every bit of that delicious sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing it tight to maintain that creamy goodness.
Freezing
While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve the sauce’s texture and avoid separation.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during chilling. Microwaving works too but do so in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works great because its tube shape catches the sauce, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep that perfect al dente texture.
Is there a way to make this sauce lighter without losing flavor?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce fat and calories. The sauce will be slightly less thick but still creamy and flavorful, especially with a good amount of Parmesan and garlic.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers can add color, nutrients, and extra flavor layers. Just toss them in when adding the chicken back to the skillet so everything warms through evenly.
What if I am cooking for a crowd? How do I scale this recipe?
This recipe scales up nicely. Simply multiply the ingredients in direct proportion to your number of guests and use a larger pan or cook in batches. Keep warm in a low oven if needed before serving.
How can I make sure my chicken stays juicy and tender?
Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking, and avoid overcooking by watching for a golden exterior and firm texture. Removing it promptly from the heat once done helps retain moisture before adding it back into the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Recipe is truly one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again because it hits all the comfort food marks with ease and elegance. Sharing this warm, satisfying meal with loved ones is sure to brighten any weeknight or special occasion. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fall in love with this delicious, creamy garlic chicken pasta!
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
This creamy garlic chicken penne is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich garlic cream sauce with Parmesan cheese, tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients into a luscious meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside for later use.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season them with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Create the Sauce Base: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet to incorporate the flavorful bits into the sauce. Then stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the simmering cream mixture. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken and the drained penne pasta back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve: Serve the creamy garlic chicken penne warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired, for a fresh and colorful finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor and nutrition, add vegetables such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to create a lighter sauce option.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce consistency.
