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 wraps you in comfort from the very first bite. Succulent pieces of pan-seared chicken breast are coated in a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce, then served over al dente penne pasta blanketed in gooey, melted cheese. It’s rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor in every forkful—making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive enough to serve guests.

What makes this dish stand out is the balance of flavors and textures. The crispy edges of the golden chicken contrast with the creamy sauce, while the penne absorbs every bit of the cheesy richness. A hint of garlic brings warmth without overpowering the dish, and a final sprinkle of fresh herbs makes it restaurant-worthy. If you’re looking for something hearty, satisfying, and deeply comforting, this is it.

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

• Rich, Creamy Sauce: Made with fresh garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese, the sauce is the star of the show—decadent without being too heavy.
• One-Skillet Wonder: You only need one pan for the chicken and sauce, and one pot for the pasta—minimal cleanup!
• Great for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
• Customizable: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist, or switch the protein for shrimp or sausage.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s universally loved—kids, adults, and picky eaters alike go back for seconds.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each)

To make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta as effortlessly as possible, the right tools can make a huge difference in both speed and results.

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where the magic happens. A deep skillet allows you to sear the chicken evenly and later build the creamy garlic parmesan sauce without it spilling over. Nonstick or stainless steel both work—just make sure it distributes heat evenly.
• Large Pot: You’ll need this to boil your penne pasta to that perfect al dente texture. Choose one with a wide base so the pasta doesn’t clump together.
• Tongs or Spatula: Tongs are ideal for flipping chicken without tearing the sear, and they’re handy when mixing everything together at the end.
• Microplane or Garlic Press: For fresh garlic that blends smoothly into the sauce, a microplane or garlic press gets the job done faster and cleaner than mincing with a knife.
• Whisk: To blend the cream, parmesan, and garlic into a silky, lump-free sauce, a good whisk is your best friend.
• Meat Thermometer (Optional but Helpful): Ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying it out—aim for 165°F internal temperature.

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Preparation Tips

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: If your chicken breasts are thick, gently pound them to an even thickness before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Salt Your Pasta Water: Don’t skip this step! It’s the first opportunity to season the pasta from the inside out.
• Use Room Temperature Cream: Adding cold cream to a hot pan can cause it to curdle. Let your cream sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before using.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce. Freshly grated parmesan melts better and tastes richer.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. It’s perfect for thinning out the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken: Cook in batches if needed to ensure a proper sear. Steamed chicken doesn’t have the same flavor punch.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this creamy, cheesy dream to life:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise for thinner cutlets)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• Salt, for pasta water

For the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce:

• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed
• 1½ cups heavy cream (room temperature)
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water (as needed, for thinning the sauce)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
• Extra parmesan, for sprinkling

These simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a showstopping comfort meal full of bold flavor and creamy texture.

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Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F).
Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.

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Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining. Drain pasta and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn).
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any browned bits.
Add the parmesan cheese, mozzarella (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece in the cheesy garlic sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Slice and Add Chicken

Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Place on top of the pasta, or fold it in for a fully mixed dish.
Sprinkle with extra parmesan and freshly chopped herbs for garnish.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to serving plates or a large platter. Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.
Prepare for compliments—they’re coming.

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Notes

• Double the Sauce for Extra Creaminess: If you’re a sauce lover or planning to save some for leftovers, consider doubling the sauce ingredients—this pasta soaks it up beautifully.
• Use High-Quality Parmesan: Aged, fresh parmesan makes a noticeable difference in both texture and flavor. Avoid shelf-stable varieties if possible.
• Customize the Dish: Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for added depth and nutrition.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Pasta Water: Pasta water contains starch and is a natural thickener that helps bind the sauce. Forgetting to reserve it can leave your sauce thicker than you’d like.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Searing too long can make the chicken dry. Keep an eye on the internal temperature—165°F is the sweet spot.
• Adding Cold Cream to a Hot Pan: Pouring cold cream straight into a hot pan can cause the sauce to split. Always let it come to room temp first.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It doesn’t melt as smoothly because of added anti-caking agents. Grating fresh cheese ensures a silkier sauce.
• Overcrowding the Pan: This traps steam and prevents the chicken from browning properly. If needed, sear in batches.
• Letting Garlic Burn: Garlic cooks quickly. Once it turns golden, immediately move on to adding cream—burnt garlic makes the sauce taste bitter.
• Forgetting to Taste: Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or parmesan as needed to make the flavors pop.
• Mixing Cheese on High Heat: High heat can cause cheese to become stringy or separate. Keep it medium to low and stir constantly.

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

This dish is rich, comforting, and creamy—so pairing it with sides that offer freshness, crunch, or contrast helps balance the meal beautifully. Here are some standout options:

8 Recommendations:

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
   Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate. Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside—it’s a classic match.
2. Simple Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
   The peppery arugula and zesty dressing cut through the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Broccoli or Broccolini
   Adds a healthy, crispy edge to your plate. Lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and a dash of lemon.
4. Caesar Salad
   Creamy yet tangy, this salad complements the garlic and parmesan flavors in the dish.
5. Grilled Asparagus
   Smoky, tender asparagus spears make for a visually elegant and tasty pairing.
6. Sautéed Mushrooms with Thyme
   Earthy mushrooms enhance the umami flavor profile of the parmesan and garlic.
7. Bruschetta or Caprese Skewers
   These fresh, tomato-based starters provide a cool contrast and vibrant flavor burst before the main dish.
8. Chilled Glass of White Wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
   Not a food, but an excellent pairing—the crispness of a white wine balances the creaminess of the sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Storing your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta properly ensures that every bite is just as satisfying the next day.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. The flavors will deepen, and the sauce will thicken slightly.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate or become grainy after thawing. If you must freeze it, do so before combining with the pasta for better texture upon reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~720 kcal
• Protein: 43g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 165mg
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Serving Size: 1¼ to 1½ cups
• Diet: Comfort food, high protein
• Category: Dinner

Note: Values may vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They’re juicier and slightly richer in flavor—just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

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2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

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3. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. For a lighter version, use whole milk and thicken with a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch.

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4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written—but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring your parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

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5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers are great additions. Stir them into the sauce before adding the pasta.

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6. What cheese melts best for this sauce?

Freshly grated parmesan is key for flavor. Mozzarella adds stretch and creaminess. Avoid pre-shredded cheese—it doesn’t melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents.

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7. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to loosen it to your desired consistency.

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8. Can I serve this dish cold as pasta salad?

Not really. This dish is best served warm. Once chilled, the sauce firms up and loses its creamy texture. Reheat gently for the best experience.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for any day of the week. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying without being overly complicated to make. With tender seared chicken, a luscious parmesan garlic cream sauce, and pasta that soaks up every bit of flavor, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re making it for family dinner or a date night at home, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to—deliciously simple and indulgently good.

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