Garlic Chicken Penne in Creamy Sauce

Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic favorite with this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne recipe. When time is short but your craving for rich homemade goodness is strong, this dish is your go-to solution. Picture juicy chicken strips, vibrant broccoli, and a velvety sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan, all tossed with penne pasta for a weeknight meal that never disappoints.

I remember the first time I whipped up this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne in our new home—it felt like a feast despite having only a few basic ingredients. The magic of heavy cream is truly transformative, turning ordinary flavors into something irresistibly luscious while the Parmesan adds that perfect savory note. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, especially on those chilly evenings when a comforting meal is all you need.

Quick Benefits

• Comforting Homemade Richness: This dish offers a quick and comforting meal with juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and a silky sauce laced with garlic and Parmesan.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable with variations like using different pasta shapes, swapping ingredients like chicken thighs or vegetables, and trying different cheeses for a unique taste.
• Family-Friendly and Cozy: A meal that pleases everyone, this creamy pasta dish is a cozy weeknight favorite that can be enhanced with additional ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare components like chicken and pasta in advance to streamline the cooking process and have a flavorful dish ready to serve with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Penne in Creamy Sauce Recipe

• Quick and Comforting: Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and comforting meal that still feels homemade and rich.
• Juicy Chicken: The juicy chicken strips combined with fresh broccoli create a satisfying and delicious dish.
• Silky Garlic Parmesan Sauce: The silky sauce with garlic and Parmesan adds a depth of flavor that will have you craving more.
• Family-Friendly: A dish loved by picky eaters and kids. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying a creamy pasta.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe based on what you have on hand. Swap ingredients like chicken thighs or spinach, and add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep components in advance, then assemble with the sauce just before serving for a fresh and delightful texture.
• Creamy and Luscious: The heavy cream and Parmesan sauce combination creates a luscious, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the penne pasta.
• Leftovers: Enjoy any leftovers within three days by adding a splash of milk or cream to reheat, maintaining the creamy texture.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Serve this dish with a side salad, garlic bread, and roasted cherry tomatoes for a complete and impressive meal that’s sure to impress guests.

Ingredients for Garlic Chicken Penne in Creamy Sauce

Pasta and Protein

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 cups penne pasta

Vegetables and Fresh Aromatics

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• 1.5 cups broccoli florets

Sauce and Seasoning

• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Pro Tips for Garlic Chicken Penne in Creamy Sauce

To make the Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne extra flavorful and comforting, consider adding additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for a colorful and flavorful twist. These veggies will not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but also provide extra nutrients and textures. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

For a perfectly creamy sauce, allow the heavy cream to simmer slowly before adding the Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth and silky consistency. This method helps the flavors meld together beautifully and creates a rich, luxurious sauce that coats the chicken, pasta, and veggies evenly. Taking the time to simmer the cream will elevate the dish and make it even more indulgent.

If you want to lighten up the dish without compromising on creaminess, try using alternatives like half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a dairy-free option. These substitutions can help reduce the calorie content while still maintaining a velvety texture in the sauce. Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences to achieve the desired level of creaminess.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Penne in Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sear Chicken Strips

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken breast and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Sauté until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare Cream Sauce

Add heavy cream and bring mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Heat Through

Combine broccoli florets and reserved penne in the skillet. Toss to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook until broccoli turns bright green and dish is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the cooked dish for freshness. Serve hot right away.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne, place any leftovers in a sealed container and store them in the refrigerator. The dish can be kept this way for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to help loosen the sauce before microwaving in short increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid freezing the dish as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

For variations on the recipe, boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for extra juiciness. Additionally, broccoli can be swapped for vegetables like asparagus or spinach, and Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Grana Padano or pecorino for a slightly different flavor profile. This adaptable dish can be served as a standalone meal or paired with a green salad and lemony vinaigrette, or with accompaniments like toasted garlic bread and roasted cherry tomatoes for added brightness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have chicken breasts on hand, boneless chicken thighs can be a flavorful substitute that keeps the dish juicy. Additionally, if broccoli isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it for seasonal vegetables like asparagus or spinach to add your own twist to the dish.

For a slightly different flavor profile, you can replace Parmesan cheese with grated Grana Padano or pecorino. These cheeses offer a nuttier taste that can complement the creamy sauce beautifully. Experimenting with different cheese varieties can add a unique touch to the dish while still maintaining its comforting essence.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation of Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne, consider serving it in individual cast iron skillets or mini casserole dishes to create a cozy and inviting feel. Top each portion with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra grating of Parmesan for a touch of elegance. Pair this dish with a side of garlic breadsticks or homemade focaccia to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

To elevate the Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne experience, serve it family-style in a large pasta serving bowl placed at the center of the table. Add a generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a hint of spice. Accompany the meal with a rustic artisanal salad filled with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic glaze for a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience for your guests.

FAQs for Garlic Chicken Penne in Creamy Sauce

Can I make any substitutions in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts, swap broccoli with asparagus or spinach, or use Grana Padano or pecorino instead of Parmesan for a slightly different flavor profile.

How should I reheat leftovers of this dish?

To reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and microwave in short bursts, tossing to ensure even warmth. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days.

Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can include bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or any other vegetables of your choice for extra color and flavor diversity.

Can I prepare any components of this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time, but it’s best to combine everything with the sauce just before serving to maintain the best texture. For a lighter version, you can try using half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a dairy-free alternative while still retaining the creaminess.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne is truly a versatile dish that never fails to bring warmth and comfort to the table. Whether you’re rushing to put together a quick meal or looking to impress your loved ones, this recipe is a perfect choice. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and Parmesan, beautifully coats the tender chicken and al dente penne, creating a delightful harmony of flavors in every bite.

Don’t hesitate to make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne your own by incorporating your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different types of pasta. It’s all about creating a dish that suits your taste and brings joy to those around you. Remember, cooking is a creative journey, and this recipe is just the beginning. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this delicious pasta, and savor the delightful flavors of Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne with those you love.