Imagine the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter, filling your kitchen as you prepare a comforting dish that warms your soul. If you’ve ever stared into your fridge at 6 PM, wondering what to make for dinner, this Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cheddar Parmesan Cream is your answer. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a dish that delights your taste buds and makes any evening feel special.

This recipe has roots in the Italian comfort food tradition, where pasta is often celebrated for its ability to bring people together. Growing up, my family would gather around the table, enjoying bowls of creamy pasta while sharing stories from our day. This Garlic Butter Chicken Penne evokes those cherished memories, combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a luscious cheddar parmesan sauce that envelops each bite. It’s a nostalgic hug in a bowl. You can learn more about this topic.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to the rich flavor in this Garlic Butter Chicken Penne lies in the balance of ingredients and cooking techniques. Sautéing garlic in butter releases its aroma and infuses the dish with a robust essence. Using high-quality cheddar and parmesan cheese creates a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully. This one-pot meal simplifies cleanup and maximizes flavor, ensuring you get a delicious dinner on the table without the fuss. Check out our related guide for more tips.

Ingredients

For the best results, use high-quality cheese; aged cheddar adds an extra depth of flavor. If you’re looking for substitutes, you can use gluten-free penne pasta or opt for milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, though this will affect the creaminess.

Steps / Instructions

Troubleshooting / Pro Tips

• Ensure the garlic is sautéed until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor.
• For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer after adding the cream and cheese until desired consistency is achieved.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it.
• Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving; sometimes a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time or meal prep?
No, this dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and combine with the pasta just before serving.

Can I freeze it, and how do I reheat it properly?
While not recommended, you can freeze the leftovers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

What can I serve with this?
This Garlic Butter Chicken Penne pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

What if my sauce is too thin?
Let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken it up. Adding a bit more cheese can also help.

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Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cheddar Parmesan Cream

Recipe by Chef

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: Italian Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4 +

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Calories

600 kcal

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it's a dish that delights your taste buds and makes any evening feel special.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 12 ounces Penne pasta
• 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 cups Chicken broth
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

1.

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2.

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

3.

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.

4.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce for about 3-4 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

5.

Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

6.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne!

Nutrition Facts

Calories 600 kcal