Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Recipe With Rich Sauce And Tender Chicken

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: – 8 oz dry penne pasta cooked as per package directions for the hearty base; – 1 lb skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs cubed for the main protein; – 1 tsp Italian seasoning used to season the chicken; – 1/2 tsp kosher salt for seasoning the chicken; – 1/2 tsp black pepper for seasoning the chicken; – 1/2 tsp paprika for seasoning the chicken; – 1/4 tsp garlic powder for seasoning the chicken; – 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking the chicken until golden and juices run clear; – 2 tbsp butter sautéed with garlic to create the fragrant base; – 6 cloves minced garlic added to butter for aroma; – 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth simmered to build the sauce; – 1 cup room temperature heavy cream stirred in to enrich and thicken the sauce; – 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese mixed in for creaminess and depth; – 2 tbsp chopped parsley sprinkled on top before serving

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, creamy garlic chicken penne stands out as a favorite for busy families. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich, garlicky sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, making every bite satisfying. It’s not just simple to whip up; it’s also packed with flavors that appeal to home cooks of all skill levels.

One of the best parts about this creamy garlic chicken penne is how easy it is to prepare. You can get everything ready in about 30 minutes, with just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time, which fits perfectly into a hectic schedule. Plus, each serving offers around 462 calories, including 30.2 g of fat, 25 g of carbs, and 24 g of protein, making it a balanced choice for those watching their diet.

Beyond its speed, this recipe shines with health perks from ingredients like garlic, known for its benefits, and lean chicken for protein. You can tweak it for different needs, such as using gluten-free pasta or vegan swaps, to suit everyone at the table. Whether you’re a student grabbing a fast dinner or a parent feeding the family, this dish brings joy with its creamy texture and hearty taste.

Ease of preparation: Minimal steps and common ingredients mean you can make creamy garlic chicken penne in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknights.
Health benefits: Garlic adds antioxidants while chicken provides lean protein, supporting everyday wellness without skimping on flavor.
Versatility: Swap in gluten-free penne or vegan alternatives to adapt it for various diets, keeping it fresh for any occasion.
Distinctive flavor: The creamy sauce with roasted garlic notes and juicy chicken sets this penne apart, making it a go-to comfort food.

To get the most out of this recipe, remember tips like using room temperature heavy cream to keep the sauce smooth and choosing fresh grated Parmesan for better melting. For more ideas on chicken-based meals, check out this creamy chicken and broccoli pasta recipe on our site.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
2. Essential Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
5. Mastering Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
8. Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making creamy garlic chicken penne that tastes amazing. This section breaks down everything you need, ensuring your dish turns out just right. We’ll focus on precise measurements to make shopping and cooking straightforward.

Main Ingredients

Here is a complete list of all the ingredients required for this recipe. Each one plays a specific role, from the pasta base to the flavorful sauce.

8 oz dry penne pasta – cooked as per package directions for the hearty base
1 lb skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs – cubed for the main protein
1 tsp Italian seasoning – used to season the chicken
1/2 tsp kosher salt – for seasoning the chicken
1/2 tsp black pepper – for seasoning the chicken
1/2 tsp paprika – for seasoning the chicken
1/4 tsp garlic powder – for seasoning the chicken
1 tbsp olive oil – for cooking the chicken until golden and juices run clear
2 tbsp butter – sautéed with garlic to create the fragrant base
6 cloves minced garlic – added to butter for aroma
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – simmered to build the sauce
1 cup room temperature heavy cream – stirred in to enrich and thicken the sauce
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese – mixed in for creaminess and depth
2 tbsp chopped parsley – sprinkled on top before serving

Special Dietary Options

If you have specific dietary needs, it’s simple to adjust this recipe. For instance, swap chicken with tofu for a vegan version or use gluten-free penne to make it suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream
Gluten-free: Opt for gluten-free penne pasta varieties
Low-calorie: Switch heavy cream with Greek yogurt and cut back on cheese quantity

Nutritionally, each 170g serving includes 462 calories, with fats like 11.1 g saturated fat and proteins from the chicken that keep you full. For more inspiration on hearty pasta dishes, try this creamy beef and bowtie pasta recipe for a flavorful twist.

How to Prepare the Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne: Step-by-Step Guide

Making creamy garlic chicken penne is fun and straightforward, even if you’re new to cooking. Start by pulling together your ingredients to keep things organized. This guide walks you through each step, ensuring your dish comes out creamy and delicious every time.

First, cook the 8 oz of dry penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s just right. While the pasta boils, prepare the chicken by cubing 1 lb of skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs and seasoning them with 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp paprika, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder. This seasoning mix adds a burst of flavor that makes the chicken tender and tasty.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s golden and the juices run clear, about 6-8 minutes.
In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp butter and 6 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté them together until the garlic smells amazing and is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up those tasty browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
Mix in the cooked penne pasta, coating it well with the broth in the skillet.
Stir in 1 cup of room temperature heavy cream and 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and everything combines smoothly.
Sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped parsley on top and serve hot for a fresh finish.

The total time is about 30 minutes, with the sauce reaching its creamy peak when you use fresh ingredients. For best results, choose short, ridged pastas like penne to hold the sauce. This method keeps the dish juicy, especially if you opt for chicken thighs over breasts.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Everyone has different needs, so tweaking creamy garlic chicken penne is easy and fun. You can make it fit your lifestyle without losing that rich taste. Let’s look at some smart swaps to keep things delicious.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan for vegan options
Use shrimp or turkey breast as alternative proteins

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Swap traditional heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for dairy-free diets
Incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients
Adjust seasonings by adding smoked paprika or fresh herbs to change the flavor

These changes help maintain the dish’s creamy texture while making it healthier or allergy-friendly. For example, adding veggies can boost the nutrition without thinning the sauce.

Mastering Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your creamy garlic chicken penne to the next level with these pro tips. Sear the chicken on high heat for a crispy edge before simmering it in the sauce; this adds a nice texture contrast. Using homemade garlic-infused olive oil can make the flavors even deeper and more memorable.

Tips	Benefits
Use room temperature heavy cream	Prevents sauce separation for a smooth finish
Opt for fresh grated Parmesan	Melts better and enhances creaminess
Choose chicken thighs	Keeps meat juicier than breasts

For flavor variations, try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy kick or fresh basil to brighten the taste. Presentation matters too top with chopped parsley and a drizzle of oil for a polished look. If you’re planning ahead, prepare the sauce and chicken separately and combine with fresh pasta later.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne: Best Practices

Keeping your creamy garlic chicken penne fresh is simple with the right storage tips. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep flavors intact. Freezing works well too; portion it into freezer-safe containers and it can last up to 2 months.

Refrigeration: Cool the dish quickly before sealing to avoid spoilage
Freezing: Thaw overnight in the fridge for safe reheating
Reheating: Warm on low heat with a bit of water to restore the sauce’s texture
Meal prep: Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t get too soft when reheated

Reheat gently to preserve the creamy goodness, as recommended for best results. This way, your meal stays enjoyable even the next day.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Can I add vegetables to creamy garlic chicken penne without thinning the sauce?

Yes, you can add vegetables without ruining the sauce’s texture. Choose low-moisture options like spinach or sautéed mushrooms. Add spinach at the very end to wilt it gently, or cook mushrooms with the chicken to enhance flavor. Avoid watery vegetables like zucchini or tomatoes, as their extra water content can thin the sauce and affect its creamy consistency.

What type of Parmesan cheese works best for creamy garlic chicken penne?

Using a Parmesan wedge that you grate yourself is best, since it melts smoothly and has a sharper, richer flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan is convenient and still works but may not achieve the same creamy finish and depth of taste. Freshly grated cheese helps the sauce thicken better and enhances the overall dish.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter in this recipe?

You can use lighter dairy like half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind this changes the sauce’s texture. Half-and-half will produce a thinner sauce, and milk can curdle if heated too quickly or at a high temperature. If using lighter alternatives, cook over low heat and avoid boiling to maintain creaminess.

What should I do if my garlic cream sauce doesn’t thicken?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer gently for a few more minutes before adding the pasta. Avoid boiling, as this can make the sauce separate. You can also stir in an extra small handful of Parmesan cheese at the end to help thicken it naturally. Gradual heat and patience are key for a smooth, creamy sauce.

Is it possible to prepare creamy garlic chicken penne ahead of time?

The sauce tastes best fresh right after cooking, so fully made creamy garlic chicken penne is not ideal for make-ahead meals. However, you can prep ingredients in advance—chop garlic, cube chicken, and measure spices—so cooking on the day is quicker and easier. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess if needed.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe with Rich Sauce and Tender Chicken