One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne
One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne is a culinary gem that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Imagine a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings warmth and comfort to your table with minimal fuss. This creamy, garlicky meal is a delight to make and a joy to eat, all cooked in just one pot. Whether you’re feeding a family or just in the mood for some indulgence without the cleanup, this recipe is bound to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up this One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne. First, it’s time-efficient; from start to finish, you’ll be enjoying your meal within 30 minutes. The ability to prepare an entire dinner in one pot makes cleanup a breeze, adding to its appeal. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, utilizing simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.
This dish is truly a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a quick romantic meal. The rich flavors mingle beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender penne pasta, making every bite unforgettable.
"This recipe has become a staple in our household! It’s quick, easy, and the flavors are phenomenal. My kids can’t get enough of it!" — Happy Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Making this delightful dish is straightforward and forgiving, perfect for cooks of all levels. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:
- Sauté the chicken pieces until they are golden brown.
- Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Combine chicken broth and heavy cream, boiling it before adding the penne.
- Simmer until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Mix in the cooked chicken and cheese, then garnish and serve.
This method ensures that all the flavors marry beautifully, allowing the creamy sauce to cling to every piece of pasta and chicken.
What you’ll need
To prepare this simple yet scrumptious meal, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu if you’d like a different protein, or use any pasta shape you have on hand!
Step-by-step instructions
-
Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
-
Cook Garlic: In the same pot, add more butter if necessary. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
-
Create the Base: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a boil.
-
Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne, mixing occasionally to prevent sticking. Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
-
Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan, and mozzarella if you choose, until your dish is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as preferred.
-
Garnish and Serve: Finally, top with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan. Serve hot for a delicious one-pot meal!
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne experience, consider these serving suggestions:
- Plate Smartly: Twist the pasta into a nest on each plate for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
- Add a Side Salad: A light Caesar or mixed greens salad pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the dish.
- Accompany with Garlic Bread: Who could resist sopping up that creamy sauce with some warm, crusty garlic bread?
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers from your One-Pot Garlic Chicken is simple:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze, do so immediately after it cools — it keeps well for 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to regain creaminess.
Always remember to properly label your containers with the date for safe food management!
Helpful cooking tips
Want to ensure your One-Pot Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time? Here are some chef’s tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet isn’t big enough, it’s better to cook the chicken in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Adjust the Thickness: The sauce may thicken more than you like; feel free to add more broth or cream to adjust it to your preference.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for added flavor complexity.
Creative twists
The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Here are some variations you might consider:
- Protein Swaps: Use shrimp or sliced sausages instead of chicken for a different protein.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or diced zucchini for a meatless version.
- Seasoning Changes: Introduce a touch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap Italian seasoning for a herby blend tailored to your taste.
Your questions answered
Q: How long does it take to make?
A: From start to finish, you’ll have this delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream?
A: Yes! Use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but note that the richness may vary.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy.
With all these insights, you’re fully equipped to make and enjoy One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne. Happy cooking!
One-Pot Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Penne
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add more butter if necessary. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the uncooked penne, mixing occasionally to prevent sticking. Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan, and mozzarella if you choose, until your dish is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as preferred.
- Finally, top with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan. Serve hot for a delicious one-pot meal!
