If you’re craving comfort in a bowl, Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne delivers from the very first bite: tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce that clings to every curve. It’s weeknight-friendly yet irresistible enough for date night, and the fragrant hit of Parmesan and parsley brings restaurant magic home. Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne is about big flavor, pure satisfaction, and very little fuss—so let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne comes from simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch. Each one plays its part—from building that ultra-creamy texture to adding pops of color and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need (and why you’ll love it):
- 12 oz penne pasta: Sturdy and springy, penne holds on to the luscious sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Gives the chicken gorgeous golden color and a hint of richness.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: The star protein—make sure to cut evenly so they cook up juicy and quick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always season as you go to bring out every flavor.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for the sauce—smooth, creamy, and delicious.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Don’t skimp! Garlic is the backbone of that irresistible sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps the sauce thicken to the perfect consistency.
- 1 3/4 cups whole milk: For creamy texture—whole milk gives just the right richness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Turns a good sauce into a dreamy, restaurant-worthy one.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For salty, nutty flavor and a melty finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds aromatic herbal notes without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat if you love a gentle kick.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For freshness and a beautiful pop of green.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add your penne. Cook according to package directions—usually around 11 minutes—until perfectly al dente. Drain well and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen your sauce later. This step gives Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne its signature bite!
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Stir occasionally for about 5 to 7 minutes, letting the chicken get golden and just cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate—you’ll add them back soon!
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan. When it melts and starts to foam, toss in the minced garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute until your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible—and the garlic turns just golden but not browned.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over your garlicky butter and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This roux is what makes the sauce thick, smooth, and creamy, so take your time here! Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking until everything is silky and lump-free. Let it simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce starts to thicken up beautifully.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Now, stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling a little spicy. Continue whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is glossy and smooth—this is where it transforms into the soul of Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne!
Step 6: Toss Everything Together
Add the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta right into the skillet. Use tongs or a big spoon to gently toss everything so the sauce hugs every bit of pasta and chicken. Give it a taste, and adjust your seasoning if needed. Let it heat through for a couple minutes, then turn off the heat.
Step 7: Finish and Garnish
Just before serving, shower everything with chopped fresh parsley. This moment is pure transformation: suddenly, you have Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne ready for the spotlight—fresh, fragrant, and positively mouthwatering!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and more fresh parsley on top are both classic and gorgeous. If you love a bit of zest, finely grated lemon peel adds brightness, while a handful of toasted pine nuts lend a lovely crunch. Don’t be shy—let your toppings reflect your mood.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich, so pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or simple steamed green beans also offer a colorful, fresh contrast. And honestly, a crusty baguette is never unwelcome for mopping up every bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne straight from the skillet at the table. Entertaining? Twirl nests of pasta onto individual plates and arrange chicken pieces artfully on top. Or, try baking it in a dish with extra cheese until bubbly for a comforting casserole twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne store wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to have quick lunches or a second dinner, portion it out and you’re set for cozy comfort any time. The flavors often develop even more overnight.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Creamy pasta may lose a little silkiness once thawed, but it’s still delicious. Freeze up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating and add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a few tablespoons of milk and stir gently until hot and creamy again. If microwaving, use 50% power, cover loosely, and stir in some milk to keep the Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne velvety.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely—you can swap penne for rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand. The sauce pairs well with most short, sturdy shapes that can hold up to all that creamy goodness!
How do I make it lighter?
If you’d like a lighter version, you can use half-and-half in place of the milk and cream, or swap some of the cream for extra milk. Just know it might be a little less rich, but still just as tasty.
What veggies can I add?
Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even frozen peas are fantastic add-ins for Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne. Just toss them in with the pasta and chicken before finishing with the sauce.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Everything else works perfectly as written.
Is there a way to make it vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, simply leave out the chicken and double up on veggies like mushrooms, peppers, and zucchini. You can also add white beans or chickpeas for a little extra protein.
Final Thoughts
This dish brings the kind of creamy, garlicky joy you’ll want to revisit again and again. Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne is pure comfort food—reliable, delicious, and always satisfying. I hope you’ll make it your own and share it with those you love. Let each bite remind you: cozy food really can be simple and stunning!
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a rich and satisfying meal with this Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne recipe. Tender chicken and al dente pasta are coated in a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce, creating a comforting dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Penne Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Boil penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Sauté seasoned chicken pieces until cooked through and browned. Remove from skillet.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, cook garlic in butter, add flour, then gradually whisk in milk and cream until thickened. Stir in cheese, seasonings, and return chicken and pasta to coat.
- Finish and Serve: Heat through, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for the milk and cream.
- Enhance with steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- This dish reheats well with a splash of milk.
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