Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce is a dish that welcomes you with open arms. Imagine tender chicken pieces, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce that dances on your palate. The combination of garlic butter and three types of cheese creates a comforting embrace that is ideal for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or a weeknight treat that feels special.
As you savor each bite, the buttery garlic aroma fills the air, drawing everyone in. This dish offers a wonderful sensory experience that is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to join your table. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare this scrumptious dish, along with tips for serving and storing. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome components like fresh garlic and chicken.
- Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make this dish a breeze to create.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein and essential nutrients.
- Versatility: Perfect for any gathering or weeknight meal.
- Presentation: Its creamy sauce and garnished parsley make it visually appealing.
You’ll find that this recipe checks all the boxes for a delightful meal!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 7 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through; remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cream cheese and let it melt.
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Return the chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in a large bowl or individual plates, garnished with parsley and extra cheese.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Portions: This recipe serves 4, making it great for small gatherings.
- Beverage pairing: Enjoy with a refreshing glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Don’t hesitate to make it the star of your dinner!
Additional Tips
- To enhance flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Customize by including vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.
- For serving, top with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flair.
Recipe Variations
- Pesto Chicken Penne: Swap the creamy sauce for a vibrant pesto for a fresh taste.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms and add your favorite vegetables.
- Mexican Twist: Introduce taco seasoning and stir in black beans for a zesty version.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander for draining pasta
FAQ’s
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it’s fully cooked when combined with the pasta and sauce.
Q: Is this dish healthy?
A: It contains protein and can be balanced with vegetables; however, enjoy it in moderation.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Combine just before serving.
Q: How can I customize the flavor?
A: Experiment with different herbs, spices, or add a splash of lemon for brightness.
Q: What are alternative cooking methods?
A: You could bake it in the oven with cheese on top for a bubbly, golden finish.
Conclusion
Indulgent Garlic Butter Chicken Penne with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce is an incredible dish that combines rich flavors with a delightful texture. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in—offering both comfort and satisfaction. Embrace the joy of cooking and the joy of sharing this amazing dish with family and friends!
Garlic Butter Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking the chicken
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter for the sauce
- 7 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water to adjust sauce thickness
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through; remove from the pan and set aside.
Cooking the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cream cheese and let it melt.
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Combining
- Return the chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
