Indulge in this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne recipe that features tender chicken and al dente penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish combines simple ingredients for a delightful culinary experience that your family will love.
Ingredients:
12 oz penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the Penne: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Make the Creamy Base: Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the creamy sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.
Toss with Pasta: Add the drained penne to the skillet and gently toss until fully coated with the creamy garlic sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Tips:
Garnish for Presentation: Enhance the visual appeal of your dish by garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. This adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
Pair with Sides: Serve the creamy garlic chicken penne with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A simple Caesar salad or a light mixed greens salad can complement the richness of the pasta.
Portion Control: When serving, consider using a large serving spoon or tongs to present the pasta attractively on each plate. This helps in controlling portions and makes serving easier.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: A light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil over the finished dish can enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy garlic chicken penne. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help revive the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions; just cover them with a microwave-safe lid to avoid splatters.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, ensure not to overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy. Heat just until warmed through.
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- Crack Chicken Penne
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- Roasted Tomato and Garlic Ricotta Pasta
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with other types, such as rotini, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose, ensuring it is cooked to al dente.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce, cook the pasta, and combine them for a quick meal.
Is it possible to make this dish lighter or healthier?
Absolutely! To lighten the recipe, consider using low-fat or light cream instead of heavy cream. You can also substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or turkey for a leaner protein option. Adding vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers, will not only increase nutrition but also enhance flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne, simply omit the chicken and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite vegetables (like zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers). You can also add plant-based protein options, such as chickpeas or tofu, to maintain a hearty texture. Ensure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian dish.
Conclusion:
Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne is the perfect combination of comfort food and gourmet flair. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, you can create a dish that is sure to impress. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this creamy pasta will become a go-to favorite. Give it a try and savor the delightful flavors!
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne, a dish that combines tender chicken and pasta in a luscious garlic-infused sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss until fully coated with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
To lighten the dish, use low-fat cream or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 520 kcal
