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
Scale
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.
