Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of creamy Parmesan chicken with penne. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day—rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving a cozy meal, this recipe is here to make your evenings a little brighter.

 

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Part 1: Introduction, Recipe Details, and Preparation

1.1 What is Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne?

This dish is a creamy, dreamy pasta meal that combines tender chicken breast, al dente penne pasta, and a luscious Parmesan cheese sauce. It’s a classic Italian-American comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and herbs, coats every bite, making it impossible to resist.

1.2 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.

1.3 The Origins of Creamy Parmesan Pasta Dishes

Creamy pasta dishes like this one have roots in Italian-American cuisine, where rich, comforting flavors take center stage. According to Serious Eats, dishes like this became popular in the U.S. as a way to adapt traditional Italian recipes to local tastes. Today, they’re a staple in home kitchens across the country.

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2. Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Serving:

• Cooked penne pasta (or your choice of pasta)

2.2 Ingredient Substitutions

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and pasta.
• Dairy-free: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Protein swaps: Try shrimp, tofu, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

2.3 Tools and Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Whisk, spatula, measuring cups, etc.

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3. Step-by-Step Instructions

3.1 Preparing the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

3.2 Cooking the Penne Pasta

1. Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (check the package instructions).
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

3.3 Making the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3.4 Combining Everything

1. Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
2. Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

3.5 Garnishing and Serving

• Top with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
• Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.

Read  Also : Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Recipe

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4. Tips for the Perfect Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

4.1 Choosing the Right Parmesan Cheese

• Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

4.2 How to Prevent the Sauce from Breaking

• Keep the heat on medium-low when adding the cheese to avoid curdling.
• Stir constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

4.3 Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

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Part 2: Variations, Storage, FAQs, and Conclusion

5. Variations of Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne

5.1 Adding Vegetables

• Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

5.2 Spicy Version

• Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.

5.3 Lightened-Up Version

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.

5.4 Vegan or Gluten-Free Versions

• Use gluten-free pasta and dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and nutritional yeast.

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6. Storing and Reheating

6.1 How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

6.2 How to Reheat

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

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7. Nutritional Information

7.1 Calorie Count and Macros

• Calories: ~550 per serving
• Carbs: 45g | Fat: 25g | Protein: 35g

7.2 Healthier Alternatives

• Use whole wheat pasta and lean chicken breast for a lighter version.

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8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

8.1 Can I Use a Different Pasta?

Yes! Fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle work well too.

8.2 Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dish, store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving.

8.3 Why Is My Sauce Grainy?

This happens if the cheese is added too quickly or at high heat. Grate the cheese finely and stir slowly over low heat.

8.4 Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?

Yes! Add cooked chicken to the sauce and heat through.

8.5 Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

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9. Conclusion

9.1 Recap of Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! Share your creations on social media and tag me—I’d love to see your masterpiece.

Don’t forget to snap a photo and share it with your friends. After all, good food is meant to be shared.

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