Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips; 2 cups penne pasta; 1.5 cups broccoli florets; 3 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon fine salt; 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup heavy cream; 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (Freshly grated recommended); to taste Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Why you’ll love this dish

If you’re looking for a comforting yet quick meal, Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne might just become your new favorite. This dish combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked penne pasta and a luscious creamy sauce, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings. What sets it apart is the depth of flavor from the garlic and the richness of the heavy cream, creating a delightful harmony that can please even picky eaters. Add in some vegetables like broccoli for color and nutrition, and you’ve got a complete meal in one dish! You may also find Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Penne Pasta useful.

"This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne has quickly become a family favorite! The sauce is so rich and flavorful." – Happy Home Cook You may also find Garlic Butter Chicken Penne In Creamy Parmesan Cream Sauce useful.

Preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne

Making Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne is a straightforward process that involves just a few simple steps. First, you’ll need to cook the penne pasta and prepare the chicken. Then, a creamy sauce made with garlic and Parmesan cheese brings everything together beautifully. Finally, toss in some broccoli for a nutritious touch, and you’re all set for a delicious meal! You may also find Garlic Butter Chicken Penne With Creamy Parmesan Cheese useful.

What you’ll need

To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
2 cups penne pasta
1.5 cups broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon fine salt
0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
0.5 teaspoon paprika
1 cup heavy cream
0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Consider adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the penne for another pasta variety if you prefer—it’s versatile!

Directions to follow

Creamy garlic chicken penne dish garnished with herbs

Begin by cooking the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute, stirring continuously until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it completely melts and the sauce becomes rich and smooth.
Toss in the broccoli florets and reserved penne, mixing everything thoroughly so that all ingredients are coated in the creamy sauce. Continue cooking until the broccoli turns bright green and the dish is heated through.
Finish by scattering the chopped fresh parsley over the top for an added burst of flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Best ways to enjoy it

Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne is best enjoyed fresh out of the skillet. Serve it piping hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete dining experience. It’s also great for meal prep; simply portion it out into containers for quick lunches during the week.

Storage and reheating tips

If you happen to have leftovers (although that’s rarely the case!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be enjoyed for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back that creamy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Pro chef tips

Here are some handy tips to elevate your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne:

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.
Feel free to substitute the broccoli with other veggies, such as spinach or bell peppers, based on what you have on hand.
Using freshly grated Parmesan will enhance the flavor of the sauce compared to pre-packaged options.

Recipe variations

Get creative with your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne by trying out these variations:

Swap the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a different protein source.
Add in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra layer of flavor.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and add more vegetables to bulk it up.

FAQ

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

This creamy penne can be prepared in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and combine it with cooked pasta and chicken later.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy sauce and tender chicken are often a hit with kids, and you can easily adjust the flavors to suit their tastes.

Conclusion

In summary, Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne is a delightful and easy meal perfect for any occasion. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. For other delicious creamy pasta recipes, check out this recipe for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta, or try the Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne variations over at Delish. If you’re in a hurry, you might appreciate this Easy 20-Minute Recipe that ensures a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy your cooking experience!