There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of pasta, especially when it’s as creamy and flavorful as this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think. If you’re looking for more delicious dinner ideas, check out this easy chicken recipe here. It is a family favorite. This recipe takes about an hour from start to finish. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in, shall we? You can also explore more pasta recipes for inspiration.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE the Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Ingredients:

Gather your ingredients! This list is straightforward, making it easy to whip up this delicious meal without a lot of fuss. You likely have some of these ingredients already! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Making this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne is simple and enjoyable. The steps are easy to follow, and the results are incredibly rewarding. From searing the chicken to simmering the sauce, each step builds on the last to create a harmonious blend of flavors. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together. If you’re looking for techniques, check out this guide to mastering pasta here. The key is to start with quality ingredients!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold for your sauce, helping it cling to the pasta beautifully. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Another favorite of ours is the Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thyme Garlic Recipe.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should fill your kitchen!

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens, so be sure and taste as you go.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken and penne pasta to the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Recommended Tools & Equipment for Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Having the right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen. For this recipe, you won’t need anything too fancy, but a few essentials will make the process smoother. Here are some tools you’ll find helpful:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander for draining pasta

PRO TIPS for Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Variations & Serving Ideas

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding some vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or asiago. Serve it with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. A glass of crisp white wine would also be perfect.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne are just as delicious the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it, or warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep it from drying out. You might even find you like it even more the next day!

Final Thoughts

There you have it – a simple yet elegant Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special celebration. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible. This is one of my go-to recipes, and I hope it becomes one of yours too. Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, why not try some other delicious pasta dishes? Happy cooking!

Don’t miss out on our guide to Chicken Shawarma Pitas Garlic Sauce Recipe.

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Absolutely! While penne is a classic choice, feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes like farfalle (bow tie), rotini, or even spaghetti. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Yes, definitely! Sauté some vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli with the garlic for added flavor and nutrients. Add them to the skillet before you add the cream sauce.

You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, and then combine them with the cooked pasta just before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.

If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or milk. However, the sauce won’t be as thick and creamy. You might also try using a combination of milk and a bit of cornstarch to help thicken it.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing it. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for an extra kick.

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