If you have been searching for a comforting dish that is both indulgent and easy to prepare, the Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe is a total game changer. This recipe combines tender, perfectly seasoned chicken and al dente penne pasta all swirled in a luscious, cheesy sauce that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers rich flavor without any complicated fuss, promising satisfaction with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe comes down to simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a vital role from layering flavor to adding the perfect texture and color, so having everything ready before you start is key.
- 1 lb penne pasta: The perfect size and shape to hold onto all that creamy sauce in every bite.
- 2 large chicken breasts, cubed: Provides juicy, tender protein, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps achieve a golden crust on the chicken and adds subtle richness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Offers a gentle garlic flavor that infuses the chicken.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds depth and a sweet undertone to the seasoning mix.
- 1 tsp paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors at play.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that signature velvety, luscious sauce you’ll love.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds a savory base that balances the richness of the cream.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Instantly elevates the sauce with sharp, nutty flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives a fragrant and zesty punch to the sauce.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Introduces a mild tang and depth to the creamy mixture.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds a bright, fresh contrast and a pop of color on top.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe
Step 1: Perfectly Cook the Penne
Begin by cooking your penne pasta just as the package directs—al dente is ideal here, so the pasta holds up nicely without becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain and set it aside while you prepare that glorious sauce and chicken combination.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the cubed chicken breasts along with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken sizzle away until it’s fully cooked through and boasts a beautiful golden brown crust, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in flavor and texture that you’ll love.
Step 3: Build Flavor with Garlic and Tomato Paste
Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste into the skillet, cooking for another minute or two. This is where that rich, savory undertone develops, and the smell alone will have you excited to dig in soon. The tomato paste adds a subtle tang that balances the creaminess later on.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Base
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly over about five minutes. Stir occasionally to encourage the sauce to meld and coat the chicken perfectly as it reduces.
Step 5: Incorporate the Star Ingredient—Parmesan
Now for the most decadent moment: sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This step transforms the base into a velvety, irresistible coating that clings beautifully to the pasta and tender chicken pieces.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add your cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together so every piece of pasta is lavishly covered in that creamy Parmesan goodness, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish the dish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This simple touch brings a fresh, herbaceous lift as well as an inviting splash of green, making it look as appetizing as it tastes. Serve immediately while it’s warm and radiant.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is an ideal garnish for this recipe, adding brightness to the rich sauce. If you want to get creative, a light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few shavings of extra Parmesan cheese can amplify the indulgent experience.
Side Dishes
This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Light and fresh sides provide a wonderful contrast to the creamy, rich flavor of the chicken and pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe in shallow bowls to showcase the sauce dripping over the pasta beautifully. For dinner parties, individual cast iron skillets or ceramic ramekins make for a charming presentation that keeps everything warm and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making for a quick and satisfying meal the next day.
Freezing
While the texture of the pasta may slightly soften after freezing, you can freeze this dish for up to two months in a freezer-safe container. To preserve quality, avoid freezing the dish with fresh parsley garnish; add that fresh after reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until the sauce regains its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for capturing the sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping heavy cream for coconut cream and using a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, you can create a delicious dairy-free version of this recipe without sacrificing creaminess.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like things with a kick, add some red pepper flakes to the chicken while cooking or stir in a bit of hot sauce during the sauce-making stage for an added layer of heat.
What if I want to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Chicken thighs work beautifully here and offer extra juiciness and flavor. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly and consider slightly longer cooking time to reach that perfect tenderness.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
You can prep most of it in advance, like cooking the chicken and making the sauce, then combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and at its best texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe that brings a smile with every bite. It’s a heartwarming meal that’s effortless to prepare but feels wonderfully special. I encourage you to try this recipe—whether to treat yourself on a busy night or impress guests with minimal fuss. Trust me, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes.
Print
Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is a rich and indulgent pasta dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken cooked in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Perfectly cooked penne pasta is tossed in the flavorful sauce, making it a comforting and satisfying meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb penne pasta
Chicken & Seasoning
- 2 large chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it well and set it aside to be combined later.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through and golden brown on all sides.
- Add garlic and tomato paste: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes until you can smell the fragrant aroma, ensuring the tomato paste cooks through for maximum flavor.
- Simmer the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a smooth, rich sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, mixing thoroughly so all the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the best flavors and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute penne with any other pasta shape like rigatoni or fusilli.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
