Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne is a comforting dish that brings a warm feeling to any dinner table. When I think about this recipe, I remember cozy weeknight dinners with my family, sitting together and sharing stories. There’s something special about a creamy pasta dish; it feels like a warm hug, and everyone loves it. This recipe is worth trying because it’s simple and quick to make while packing a big flavor punch. The combination of tender chicken, chewy penne, and creamy garlic sauce makes every bite satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this dish will surely impress!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe shines for many reasons. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to prepare. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can whip this up in no time. It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Everything cooks in one skillet, making clean-up a breeze.
The ingredients are likely ones you already have in your kitchen: chicken, pasta, broccoli, garlic, cream, and cheese. This dish doesn’t require elaborate planning or fancy ingredients, making it an everyday meal. The flavor balance of creamy and savory in the garlic sauce enhances the taste of the chicken and gives the penne a delightful richness.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust it to fit your family’s preferences or dietary needs. If someone prefers vegetables, you can add more broccoli or other favorites like bell peppers or spinach. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can swap the penne for a gluten-free pasta. The dish also holds a special place in many people’s hearts because it brings families together around the dinner table.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne
Making Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne is a simple and enjoyable process. Start by prepping your ingredients. Make sure to slice your chicken breasts into strips; this helps them cook quickly and evenly. It also makes for easy bites when you serve.
As you cook, you’ll notice the wonderful aromas fill your kitchen. First, you will cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, and then drain it. The penne should be al dente, which means it’s cooked but still has a little firmness when you bite it.
Next, heat some olive oil in a large skillet. As the oil warms up, you can hear it sizzle just a bit when you add the chicken strips. Let them cook until they turn a lovely golden brown and are fully cooked through. It usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Once your chicken is cooked, it’s time to add the garlic. Minced garlic releases an incredible aroma that fills the air, making your mouth water. You only need to sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Then, stir in the broccoli florets. Let them cook for a few minutes until they’re vibrant and crisp-tender. This adds a nice pop of color and a healthy crunch to the dish.
Next, pour in the heavy cream and add in the salt, black pepper, and paprika. The cream will start to bubble slightly, and you’ll want to stir everything well. The sauce should feel rich and creamy. Finally, add the cooked penne and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing everything until it’s well combined. When you serve this dish, it should look creamy and inviting, with bits of chicken and broccoli peeking through the penne.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips: Provides protein and makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
- 2 cups penne pasta: Adds shape and texture to the dish, giving a nice bite.
- 1.5 cups broccoli florets: Brings freshness and nutrition; you can swap it for other veggies if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps cook the chicken and adds flavor; you could use butter instead for a richer taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors; adjust based on your taste.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of heat; feel free to add less if you’re sensitive to spice.
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor; you can also substitute with Italian seasoning or leave it out.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides that wonderful aroma and a savory flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce; half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative can be used, although it may affect the texture.
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a cheesy depth; you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Makes the dish look bright and fresh; you can skip it if you don’t have any on hand.
Directions
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Cook the Penne Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
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Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken strips. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Make sure it’s no longer pink in the center.
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Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir and sauté for about a minute until the garlic turns fragrant. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
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Add the Broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets into the skillet. Stir and let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender but still a bit crunchy.
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Make the Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and add the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine. The mixture will start bubbling a little, creating a delicious creamy sauce.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Gently mix everything together until the sauce coats the pasta, chicken, and broccoli evenly. Heat it for a couple more minutes to ensure everything is warm.
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Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your dish with a smile!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne
Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne is perfect for various occasions. It shines as a cozy weeknight meal after a long day. You can also serve it during family gatherings, dinner parties, or even casual get-togethers with friends.
For an extra special touch, consider serving it with a light side salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette is also excellent for scooping up the creamy sauce.
When it comes to drinks, a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea is refreshing. If you’re looking for something warm, a simple cup of soup like minestrone or chicken noodle can round out the meal nicely.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne
After enjoying your delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne, you might have some leftovers. First, allow the dish to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container for storage.
In the fridge, this dish will last for about 3-4 days. Just cover it well to keep it fresh. If you’d like to store it for longer, you can freeze it. Place the leftovers in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2-3 months for the best quality. When freezing, consider portioning it out into smaller containers for easy reheating later.
To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. If using the stovetop, add a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from becoming too thick as it heats.
Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne
- Prep Your Ingredients: Gather and chop everything before you start cooking to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: You want it to be bright green and slightly crunchy for the best texture and flavor.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic packs more flavor than pre-minced or jarred garlic, so opt for fresh cloves whenever possible.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish as you cook. This practice helps you adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Mix Gently: When combining the pasta with the chicken and sauce, stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
Variation
If you’d like to switch things up, consider these variations:
- Add Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Different Vegetables: Swap the broccoli for zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers depending on what you have on hand or what you enjoy.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when ready to serve.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
A: The microwave works well for a quick reheat, but the stovetop is preferred for better texture. Add a little cream or water to loosen the sauce while heating.
Q: Can I use a different cheese or pasta?
A: Absolutely! You can switch to your favorite cheese or gluten-free pasta as needed. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta type.
This Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne recipe is a fantastic addition to your dinner lineup. It’s easy to make, delicious, and sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try, and savor the comforting flavors!
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Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting dish of tender chicken and chewy penne tossed in a rich and creamy garlic sauce, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1.5 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken strips and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets into the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and tender.
- Make the Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet, add salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine and let it bubble slightly.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked penne and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and mix gently until coated. Heat for a couple more minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to swap penne for gluten-free pasta or add your favorite veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: creamy garlic chicken, penne pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal