Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta 🍝🍗
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Pasta is a comforting, restaurant-style dish featuring tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. Every bite is packed with savory flavors, making it perfect for family dinners, date nights, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and satisfying.
Servings
Serves: 4 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1
Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
Step 2
Season chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 4
In the same pan, sauté garlic and mushrooms for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 6
Add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7
Return chicken to the skillet and add cooked pasta. Toss everything together. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
Step 8
Garnish with parsley and diced tomatoes before serving.
Notes
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Do not overcook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the sauce.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juiciness.
Tips
Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Add spinach or broccoli for extra vegetables.
Serve immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
Approximate values.
Health Benefits
- High in protein to support muscle health.
- Provides calcium from Parmesan cheese.
- Contains energy-boosting carbohydrates from pasta.
- Garlic contains antioxidants and may support immunity.
- Mushrooms provide vitamins and minerals.
Q&A
Q: Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes. Fettuccine, rotini, or rigatoni work well.
Q: Can I make it lighter?
Yes. Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Cream-based sauces may separate after freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.