As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of sizzling garlic filled the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite Italian trattoria. There’s something truly comforting about this Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne that makes it a go-to dish when I crave homemade warmth without the fuss. In just 30 minutes, this easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, savory delight that’s perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up with minimal effort, but it also satisfies those cravings for comforting food without relying on takeout. Are you ready to discover how this creamy indulgence can become your new weeknight favorite?
Why will you adore this dish?
Irresistible Creaminess: The lush cream combined with garlic and Parmesan creates a sauce that's simply to die for.
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a gourmet meal on the table, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Comforting and Satisfying: This dish combines tender chicken and hearty penne, transforming everyday ingredients into a comforting classic that everyone loves.
Versatile Meal: You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or spices to suit your family's tastes, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Total Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this creamy garlic chicken penne is sure to impress and satisfy all palates!
Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for this delightful dish!
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta – use whole wheat for added fiber and a nutty flavor.
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken strips – chicken thighs can be a juicier substitute, if preferred.
- 2 tablespoon olive oil – this helps to achieve a perfect golden brown on your chicken.
- ½ teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors of the dish beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon pepper – adds a touch of warmth without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning – this blend brings a taste of Italy to your plate.
For the Sauce
- ½ cup minced garlic – fresh garlic infuses the dish with its signature flavor; don’t skimp!
- 1 cup chicken broth – adds a savory depth to the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – this is the secret to achieving that luscious creaminess in the Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – freshly grated will melt better and enhance the sauce’s richness.
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley – a sprinkle of this bright herb adds color and freshness.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – for those who enjoy a bit of heat to balance the creaminess.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Penne
Begin by boiling 8 oz of penne pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions, typically around 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large bowl, ensuring it's kept warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 lb of chicken strips seasoned with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and 1 tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add ½ cup of minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Watch for the garlic to become fragrant but avoid browning it, as burnt garlic will alter the flavor of your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne.
Step 4: Add Chicken Broth
Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits left on the bottom. This adds rich flavor to your dish! Increase the heat slightly and let the broth simmer for about 3–4 minutes, allowing it to reduce a little.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep an eye on it and stir constantly while adding ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, which should take about 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet, tossing them gently in the creamy garlic sauce. Ensure each piece is well-coated and heated through, allowing those flavors to meld together, which will take about 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Toss the Pasta
Add the reserved penne pasta to the skillet, and gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the luscious sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up and achieve your desired creaminess.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese on top. For those who like a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving. Present it warm and watch your family delight in this comforting dish!
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne
There's something magical about pairing this delightful dish with the perfect accompaniments that elevate your dining experience to new heights.
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Garlic Bread: The classic side brings a crunchy, buttery contrast that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Dip it into the rich garlic goodness for an irresistible treat!
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Steamed Broccoli: Crisp and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a fresh element that balances the richness of the chicken penne. A squeeze of lemon over the top brings brightness to each bite.
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Crisp Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta, with the added flavor of Parmesan tying it all together.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender yet slightly crisp, roasted asparagus brings an earthiness that harmonizes well with the creamy garlic chicken. A sprinkle of lemon zest boosts the flavor beautifully!
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Wine Pairing - Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish, with its buttery notes enhancing the creaminess.
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Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate after this hearty dish, a refreshing lemon sorbet serves as a light, zesty finish, leaving you feeling satisfied but not overwhelmed.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds a sweet and juicy contrast to the creamy pasta, making each mouthful a delight.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing drink option, sparkling water with a splash of lime provides a clean and bubbly taste that balances out the meal.
Enjoying these pairings will enhance the experience and make your dinner unforgettable!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container; they’ll keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, this dish freezes beautifully! Pack in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Airtight Guidance: To prevent freezer burn, wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap or foil before sealing. This ensures your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne retains its creamy texture.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on low heat in a skillet and add a splash of chicken broth to help rejuvenate the sauce. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne
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Perfect Pasta: Always cook penne until just al dente; it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce for that ideal texture.
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Watch the Garlic: Sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned; burnt garlic can lead to a bitter flavor in your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne.
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Thicken with Care: When adding heavy cream, stir constantly to prevent it from curdling. A gentle simmer is your best friend!
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Adjust the Sauce: If your sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth to reach that dreamy consistency.
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Customize It: Feel free to add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition, personalizing your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne to your liking!
Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun twists and swaps!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a luscious and creamy sauce without the dairy.
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Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the nutrition and pop of color in your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne.
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Whole Grain: Swap penne pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free penne for a healthier and gluten-sensitive option without losing flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some jalapeño or crushed red pepper flakes to bring a delightful heat that perfectly contrasts the creaminess of the sauce.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a fresh and vibrant twist that's bursting with flavor.
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Protein Swaps: Feel free to switch out chicken for shrimp or grilled tofu for a different yet equally satisfying protein that works beautifully with the sauce.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
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Lemon Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright and zesty finish that balances out the creaminess, making every bite sing!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the penne pasta and sauté the chicken strips up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the sauce, prepare it without the chicken and pasta, letting it cool before refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on the stove, adding the chicken and cooked penne until everything is heated through and well combined. This ensures that your dish maintains its rich flavor and creamy texture, making your busy weeknight dinners feel effortless and just as delicious as when freshly made!
Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for fresh, high-quality strips or thighs. Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne. Ensure they have a bright pink hue and no dark spots.
How should I store leftovers of Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne?
For optimal storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne?
Very! To freeze your dish, pack it into freezer-safe containers ensuring they're covered tightly to prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, and when ready, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
What if my sauce turns out too thick?
If your sauce seems thicker than desired, no worries! Just add a little splash of chicken broth to achieve your preferred consistency. Heat gently while stirring to ensure it blends well. This is a common fix, and I often do this to keep my sauces velvety!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free variety. Many brands have excellent gluten-free options that hold up well in sauces, allowing you to enjoy this creamy delight without compromising on texture or flavor.
Is this dish safe for pets?
While the ingredients in Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne are delicious for humans, garlic can be toxic to dogs and certain pets. It’s best to avoid sharing this dish with them. Keep it to yourself and enjoy every comforting bite!
Indulgent Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by boiling 8 oz of penne pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions, typically around 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large bowl, ensuring it's kept warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 lb of chicken strips seasoned with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and 1 tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate.
- In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add ½ cup of minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Watch for the garlic to become fragrant but avoid browning it, as burnt garlic will alter the flavor of your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne.
- Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits left on the bottom. This adds rich flavor to your dish! Increase the heat slightly and let the broth simmer for about 3–4 minutes, allowing it to reduce a little.
- Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep an eye on it and stir constantly while adding ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, which should take about 2–3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet, tossing them gently in the creamy garlic sauce. Ensure each piece is well-coated and heated through, allowing those flavors to meld together, which will take about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the reserved penne pasta to the skillet, and gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the luscious sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up and achieve your desired creaminess.
- Finish off your Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese on top. For those who like a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving. Present it warm and watch your family delight in this comforting dish!
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