If you have been searching for a dish that perfectly balances richness, comfort, and simplicity, you are going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe. It brings together tender chicken, a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta in one irresistible skillet meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends who appreciate comforting flavors, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list fool you; every ingredient in this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role in building deep, balanced flavors and a satisfying texture. These staples combine effortlessly to create a dish that feels gourmet but comes together without any hassle.
- Olive oil: Provides a light, fruity base for sautéing the chicken and garlic.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the creamy sauce flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors.
- Garlic: The star aromatic that infuses the dish with bold, savory depth.
- Chicken broth: Adds richness and subtle savoriness to the sauce while cooking the pasta.
- Milk: Balances the richness of the cream and cheese for a smooth, silky sauce.
- Penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto every drop of sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, nutty flavor and creamy texture as it melts.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and decadent.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a bright, herbal freshness as a garnish (optional but recommended!).
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your diced chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Sauté the chicken pieces until they’re browned on the outside and cooked through, which takes about 4 to 5 minutes. This step locks in flavor and ensures your chicken stays juicy and tender. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside so you can build the sauce in the same skillet.
Step 2: Infuse the Garlic Flavor
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the now-empty skillet. Cook it for just about one minute until the aroma fills your kitchen—this quick step wakes up the flavors without burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Next, pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to blend with the garlic. Add your uncooked penne pasta directly into the skillet and give everything a good stir so the pasta is coated. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 12 to 14 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This method infuses the pasta with deep flavor straight from the sauce.
Step 4: Creamy Finishing Touches
Now comes the best part. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt fully into the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream for that signature silky texture. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so all the flavors marry beautifully and the chicken warms through. The sauce will be rich and glossy, coating every piece of pasta perfectly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve immediately and watch as everyone digs into this hearty, feel-good meal.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the classic garnish here, adding a vibrant green contrast to the creamy sauce. If you want to get a bit fancier, a light grate of fresh lemon zest or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can enhance the brightness and add a subtle hint of heat.
Side Dishes
Because this pasta dish is so rich, pairing it with fresh, crisp sides works wonderfully. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli balances the meal. Garlic bread or a baguette also makes a fantastic companion, perfect for mopping up all that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try plating individual portions with a little extra Parmesan and a sprig of parsley on top. You could also serve the pasta in elegant small casserole dishes, baked briefly with extra cheese melted on top. The presentation instantly elevates this homestyle favorite to something special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from the Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days, making it a great option for next-day lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that pasta with cream sauce sometimes changes texture after thawing. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. For best results, consume within 1 to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick. You can also microwave individual servings in short bursts, stirring in between to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully too. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out the milk, cream, and Parmesan for dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast to mimic the cheesy flavor. Keep in mind the sauce texture will be a little different but still delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain juicy. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and sauté until fully cooked, adjusting the cooking time if needed.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or finish the dish with a drizzle of hot sauce. Fresh chopped jalapeños mixed in with the chicken also give a nice kick.
Can I make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the pasta and chicken separately and combine them right before serving for the freshest texture. Alternatively, make the full dish ahead, refrigerate, and gently reheat when ready to eat. Just be sure to stir well during reheating to maintain the creamy sauce consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe is truly a meal that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. Its perfect harmony of creamy texture, garlic-infused flavor, and tender chicken makes it a standout comfort food that you will want to revisit time and again. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—the simple joy it brings to the table is absolutely worth every bite.
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Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta 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
This creamy garlic penne pasta with chicken is an ultimate comfort meal featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed to perfection, combined with garlic-infused creamy sauce and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Rich Parmesan cheese and heavy cream create a luscious, velvety texture that makes this dish irresistibly hearty and satisfying, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or cozy weekend feast.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Pantry Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz penne pasta, uncooked
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and black pepper. Sauté the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Simmer the pasta and sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and milk into the skillet. Add the uncooked penne pasta and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 12 to 14 minutes until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Add cheese, cream, and chicken: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted into the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to heat through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve the creamy garlic penne pasta hot for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle spicy kick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melting texture.
- Ensure not to overcook the pasta during simmering to maintain a pleasant al dente bite.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
