Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that balances creamy flavors with a hint of garlic. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a comforting meal that pleases everyone at the table. With tender chicken, rich cheeses, and al dente pasta, it’s a surefire hit that highlights ease of preparation and irresistible taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering sauce you’ll crave.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet, letting you spend more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the penne pasta efficiently while ensuring it achieves the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and creating the delicious garlic butter parmesan sauce all in one place.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise ingredient quantities for balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Pasta

• 10 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes, optional

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure even coating.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes until golden brown on all sides. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Stir thoroughly and allow it to simmer gently for a couple of minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheeses

Add Velveeta cubes and cream cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until both are melted and form a smooth sauce.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Lower heat further; mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted. If sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 8: Final Mix

Return cooked penne pasta and chicken to the skillet. Gently stir until everything is well coated with sauce. Let it cook together for another minute or two.

Step 9: Serve

Finish by garnishing with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes for added heat if desired. Serve hot to enjoy this rich, creamy Cheesy Chicken Penne!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Serving Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is all about enhancing the dish’s flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing complement the rich pasta dish perfectly.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the cheesy sauce.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter adds an irresistible crunch and flavor that pairs well with the creamy pasta.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, top your garlic bread with shredded cheese before broiling until bubbly.

Offer Wine Alternatives

• Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling water with lemon makes for a great non-alcoholic pairing.
• Homemade Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade balances the richness of the dish beautifully.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for an aromatic touch that enhances presentation and flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A dash of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

How to Perfect Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Perfecting your Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is easy with just a few tips. Use these suggestions to ensure every bite is delicious.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning the chicken. Properly seasoning helps enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Creamy texture: Use full-fat dairy like heavy cream and whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
• Melt cheeses slowly: Add cheeses gradually over low heat to ensure they melt smoothly without clumping together.
• Reserve pasta water: Save some pasta water before draining; it can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency if it gets too thick.
• Taste as you go: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and garlic enhances both flavor and nutrition.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a nice crunch against the creamy pasta.
3. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter side, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic, offering a fresh contrast.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots offers a crunchy texture that balances out the creaminess of the pasta.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with vegetables and lemon vinaigrette adds protein and fiber to your meal.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that complements the cheesy dish well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce, it’s easy to fall into some common traps. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking penne pasta too long can result in mushy noodles. Always follow package instructions and test for al dente texture.

• Not Seasoning the Chicken: Failing to season the chicken well can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with your seasoning mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and spices.

• Ignoring Cheese Melting Order: Adding all cheeses at once can cause clumping. Gradually mix in Velveeta and cream cheese first before adding mozzarella and Parmesan for a smoother sauce.

• Skipping Pasta Water: Not reserving enough pasta water may result in a sauce that’s too thick. Always save some to adjust the consistency when needed.

• Rushing the Garlic: Cooking garlic too quickly can make it bitter. Sauté it on medium heat until fragrant but not browned.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth or reserved pasta water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! While penne is great, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as rigatoni or fusilli.

What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?

You can use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar as an alternative to Velveeta while maintaining creaminess.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe is mild but you can adjust spiciness by adding more red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or your favorite vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines creamy textures with rich flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or using different proteins according to your preferences. Give it a try today!