If you are on the hunt for a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance to your dinner table, this Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a luscious, velvety pasta dish packed with tender chicken strips, perfectly cooked penne, and a heavenly garlic-infused cream sauce that will instantly become one of your favorites. The balance of rich creaminess and robust garlic flavor makes every bite a delightful experience, perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients right is half the magic. Each element in this recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth, texture, or that gorgeous inviting color that makes you eager to dive in.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips: Tender protein that soaks up all the flavors.
- 8 oz penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to hold onto every bit of sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For that perfect golden sear on the chicken.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star aromatic that infuses the whole dish with warmth.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds a subtle savory base and helps create the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, indulgent texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty richness and wonderful depth.
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: A herb blend that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning everything just right.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright color and flavor contrast.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne
Start by boiling the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Draining and setting it aside early means it’s ready to soak up that luscious garlic cream sauce later on.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then, take the chicken out and set it aside, letting the pan hold on to all those tasty fond bits.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and lightly sauté for 1 to 2 minutes. This step is a game changer, as the garlic softens and releases its fragrant aroma without getting bitter or burnt.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Next, pour in the chicken broth, gently scraping the skillet’s bottom. This lifts all those flavor-packed browned bits, which adds incredible depth. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens into that perfect creamy consistency you’re dreaming of.
Step 6: Reintroduce the Chicken
Now is the moment to return the seared chicken strips back to the skillet. Stir gently to coat them thoroughly in the decadent garlic cream sauce and let the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 7: Combine with Penne
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to ensure every piece is dripping with sauce. If you want a looser sauce, simply add a splash more chicken broth until you get just the right texture.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by sprinkling fresh parsley and some extra Parmesan on top. Serve this warm, hearty dish immediately, and get ready for all the compliments coming your way!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is your best friend here, adding a vibrant green pop and a fresh contrast to the richness of the sauce. For an optional twist, red pepper flakes can spice things up just right and add a hint of warmth.
Side Dishes
Keep your sides light and simple to let the creamy garlic chicken shine. A crisp mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or asparagus complement this dish beautifully. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also fantastic for soaking up every luscious drop of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in warm shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and tender chicken strips. For added elegance, drizzle a little extra olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper over the top. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can add unexpected crunch and a nutty contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne Recipe holds up well for 2 to 3 days, making it ideal for quick lunches or easy dinners after a busy day.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze as beautifully due to the cream sauce, which can separate when thawed. If you want to freeze portions, it’s better to freeze the chicken and pasta separately without the sauce, then whip up the sauce fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive that creamy texture. Microwaving works too but stir halfway through to keep it from drying out or breaking.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding sauce, you can swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle to personalize the dish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream here?
You can substitute half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, but know that the sauce will be less rich and a bit thinner.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and add a bit more flavor and moisture. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly before proceeding.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?
Other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can step in for Parmesan, offering similar salty, nutty notes. Avoid pre-grated varieties with fillers for the best melt and flavor.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use coconut cream or dairy-free cream alternatives and a nutritional yeast substitute for the cheesy flavor. Also, use a dairy-free butter or oil to sauté the chicken and garlic.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll keep coming back to because it’s simply comforting, flavorful, and doesn’t take all day to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, it’s guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. Give it a try, and you might just find your new go-to pasta indulgence!
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-American
Description
A rich and comforting Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne recipe featuring tender chicken strips cooked in a savory garlic cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish is flavored with Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of heat from optional red pepper flakes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 8 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Garnish
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure it does not burn.
- Make the Sauce Base: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Allow the broth to simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavors.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet and mix well to coat them thoroughly in the creamy garlic sauce.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, then serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat; adjust quantity to taste or omit for no spice.
- For a gluten-free meal, replace penne pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Fresh garlic can be substituted with garlic powder if necessary, but fresh provides the best flavor.
