Hey there! If you’re like me, you love a good pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Today, I’m excited to share with you my creamy garlic Parmesan penne with chicken recipe. It’s comforting, quick to make, and seriously packed with flavor! Plus, there’s just something special about that creamy sauce that makes my heart go pitter-patter. Let’s dive into this deliciousness together!
Nutritional Benefits of This Dish
This creamy garlic Parmesan penne isn’t just a treat for your taste buds—it’s also a hearty meal that can provide you with plenty of nutrients! The chicken breast serves as an excellent source of lean protein, which helps with muscle repair and growth. Pair that with the carbohydrates from the penne pasta, and you’ve got a great energy source to fuel your day. The olive oil contributes healthy fats, and let’s not forget about the benefits of garlic, which is known for its antioxidant properties and can even help boost your immune system!
Fun and Adaptable Variations
- Veggie Lovers: Want to sneak in some greens? Toss in some spinach or broccoli while making the sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes can add extra flavor.
- Dairy-Free Version: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
- Pasta Alternatives: Try swapping penne for whole wheat pasta or even spiralized zucchini if you want a lighter dish. The sky’s the limit!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Penne with Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cream is simmering, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Plate the pasta and top it with sliced chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately, making sure to savor the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it gets too thick.
- For a quick meal prep, cook the pasta and chicken in advance and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
- If you have leftover sauce, it’s fantastic on baked potatoes or mixed with veggies as a dip!
Equipment Needed
Before we get cooking, here’s what you’ll need:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A colander for draining the pasta
- A large skillet for cooking the chicken and making the sauce
- A cutting board and knife for slicing the chicken
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A measuring cup for the cream and cheese
- A grater for fresh Parmesan (if you’re using block cheese)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, whole wheat pasta is a healthy alternative and will still taste great!
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking for even doneness.
- What other proteins can I use in this recipe? Shrimp, beef, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option work well!
I hope you enjoy making this creamy garlic Parmesan penne with chicken as much as I do! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with me on Pinterest. I’d love to see your delicious results and connect with you over our love of cooking. Happy cooking!
