Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is the kind of dish that instantly warms your soul. With juicy, seasoned chicken breasts nestled into a creamy parmesan garlic sauce and tossed with cheesy penne pasta, it’s comfort food with a luxurious twist. The garlic brings bold flavor while the parmesan and cream blend into a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of pasta.

Perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough for a cozy dinner with guests, this recipe strikes the right balance between easy and indulgent. The textures are dreamy—tender chicken, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked penne all combine in a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

This dish is for anyone who loves classic Italian-American flavors. It’s rich but not overly heavy, thanks to the balance of garlic and herbs. The creamy parmesan sauce takes on the garlic beautifully, turning ordinary chicken into something irresistible. Plus, it all comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for a no-fuss, high-reward dinner.

The leftovers are just as delightful the next day, making this a great meal prep option. And let’s not forget—that layer of melty mozzarella and parmesan over the top? It’s what makes this pasta dish so incredibly craveable.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?

Penne pasta is the top choice for this dish because of its sturdy shape and ability to hold onto the creamy garlic sauce in every ridge and hollow. But if you don’t have penne on hand, you could easily substitute rigatoni, rotini, or even fettuccine. Just be sure to use a pasta that can soak up and carry the thick sauce without getting overwhelmed. If you’re going gluten-free, a quality chickpea or rice-based penne works nicely too.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

This dish brings together a few pantry staples with fresh ingredients to create something rich, savory, and absolutely comforting. The magic is in the sauce, so using fresh garlic and real parmesan makes a difference.

• Chicken breasts: The protein base of the dish; slice them thin so they cook evenly and soak up flavor.
• Penne pasta: Its ridged texture helps cling to the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luscious, silky texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for the deepest flavor and smooth melting.
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds a melty, cheesy finish to the dish.
• Garlic cloves: Use fresh garlic for a punchy, savory flavor.
• Olive oil: Helps to sear the chicken and develop that golden crust.
• Butter: Adds richness and depth to the garlic sauce.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning at each step.
• Italian seasoning: Brings herby warmth that pairs perfectly with the cream and cheese.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of color and freshness just before serving.

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan and mozzarella until the sauce becomes creamy and thick.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the sauce along with the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything gently to coat in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen up the consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Top with more shredded parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot while the cheese is perfectly melty and the sauce is still creamy.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

This dish is best served hot straight out of the skillet when the cheese is freshly melted and the sauce is rich and silky. It’s a hearty meal that can easily feed 4 to 6 people, especially when paired with a fresh side or a light appetizer.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s original texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside and buttery on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce.

Caesar Salad

A refreshing Caesar salad cuts through the richness of the pasta, adding crunch and brightness.

Roasted Broccoli

The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli pairs well with the creamy sauce and brings balance to the dish.

Sauteed Spinach

Lightly sauteed spinach with garlic and olive oil makes a healthy and earthy side option.

Bruschetta

Tomato bruschetta adds a fresh, acidic bite that complements the creamy pasta.

Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers offer a bite-sized, flavorful contrast.

Lemon Asparagus

Grilled or roasted asparagus with a squeeze of lemon brings freshness and color to your plate.

Antipasto Platter

Olives, cured meats, and marinated vegetables make a fun and flavorful way to start the meal.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta, here are a few more mouthwatering pasta recipes that bring their own bold flavor twists:

• Try the hearty Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a comforting weeknight classic.
• The Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is perfect if you’re craving something indulgent and cheesy.
• Need a one-pot solution? Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta makes cleanup a breeze.
• This One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta packs smoky flavor with little effort.
• Or go for a creamy twist with the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta that layers beef and cheese in the most delicious way.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use extra garlic? Maybe swapped in another type of pasta? I’m always excited to see how you make these recipes your own.

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