Indulge in the creamy, savory delight of Epic Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta. This dish merges perfectly cooked penne pasta with grilled chicken breast, enveloped in a luxurious garlic cream sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will wow your family and friends with its simplicity and rich flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, requiring just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. The combination of garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates an irresistible sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Plus, the grilled chicken adds a satisfying protein element that makes this dish a complete meal. Whether you’re a garlic lover or simply looking for a filling pasta dish, this recipe is sure to impress.
Pro Tips for Making Epic Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta
- Make sure to grill the chicken until it’s nicely charred for added flavor.
- To enhance the dish, consider stirring in sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- If you prefer a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes to the creamy garlic sauce.
- Fresh herbs such as basil or thyme can elevate the flavors even further.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat alternative, adjusting the consistency as needed.
Ingredients
To make this remarkable dish, you will need:
- For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- Salted water for boiling
- For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Chicken
- 1 pound chicken breast, grilled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Follow these straightforward steps to create your Epic Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta:
- Step 1: Bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, then grill it over medium heat until cooked through and golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Slice the grilled chicken thinly.
- Step 3: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 4: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Step 6: Toss the cooked penne pasta in the creamy garlic sauce until well-coated.
- Step 7: Plate the pasta and top with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional grated cheese, if desired.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is recommended, you can swap it for rigatoni, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.
2. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover creamy garlic chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
3. How can I make this recipe lighter?
You can replace heavy cream with a lighter alternative such as Greek yogurt or half-and-half, and use less cheese.
4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
5. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
This creamy garlic chicken penne pasta is great for meal prep. Just be mindful that the pasta may absorb some sauce when stored, so consider adding a little extra cream when reheating.
Conclusion
Epic Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta is delicious, quick, and versatile. With just a handful of ingredients and steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in 35 minutes. It’s a two-in-one meal that combines comfort and flavor while satisfying hungry bellies. Give this recipe a try and revel in every creamy bite!
