There’s something irresistibly comforting about a dish that marries rich, creamy flavors with tender, perfectly cooked pasta. enter teh world of Parmesan Chicken with Penne Perfection-a culinary delight that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of taste and texture. Whether you’re seeking a hearty weeknight meal or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe promises a luscious blend of savory chicken, velvety cream, and sharp Parmesan, all entwined with al dente penne.Prepare to indulge your senses and elevate your dinner table with a plate that’s as satisfying as it is indeed elegant.
Indulge in Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Perfection
Indulge in Creamy Parmesan chicken with Penne Perfection to experience a timeless Italian-American favorite elevated with rich flavors and comforting textures. This dish harmonizes tender chicken breasts coated in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, paired perfectly with al dente penne pasta. Inspired by classic trattorias and family dinners, this recipe brings warmth and sophistication to your table with ease and flair.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
yield
Serves 4 generous portions
Difficulty Level
Medium – approachable for home cooks ready to elevate thier pasta and poultry game
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each), pounded to even thickness
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted for dredging
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle heat)
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
- Freshly grated black pepper, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the penne: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Season and dredge the chicken: In a shallow dish,combine the flour,garlic powder,salt,and pepper. Lightly coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side, and cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Create the sauce base: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1 minute, avoiding burning.
- Build the creamy Parmesan sauce: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet for flavor. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate the cheese: Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and the sauce is thick and smooth. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet,spooning sauce over them.Add cooked penne to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, integrate reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- finish and serve: Remove from heat. garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a crack of freshly grated black pepper.Serve immediately for a warm, indulgent experience.
Chef’s Notes for Indulge in Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Perfection
- For extra depth, marinate chicken breasts in buttermilk and garlic overnight before dredging.
- Use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano rather than pre-grated cheese to ensure creamy melt and authentic flavor.
- Swap penne for rigatoni or fusilli to better capture the sauce in the pasta’s grooves.
- Make ahead tip: Prepare the sauce and chicken separately, refrigerate, and reheat gently while cooking fresh pasta for the freshest texture.
- If sauce separates, whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold water to bring it back to silky perfection.
Serving Suggestions
Present this dish with a crisp mixed greens salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Accompany with crusty garlic bread or a warm ciabatta to mop up the creamy sauce. For an herbaceous finish, fresh basil or thyme leaves sprinkled on top add vibrant color and aromatics, elevating the entire plate.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 680 kcal |
| Protein | 45 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
Looking to infuse even more Italian flavors? Check out our guide on 5 Easy Italian Pasta Sauces to customize your next meal.
for science-backed tips on perfectly cooked pasta,visit Serious eats’ complete pasta cooking guide.
Q&A
Q&A: indulge in Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne Perfection
Q: What makes Creamy parmesan Chicken with Penne such a standout dish?
A: This dish is a symphony of flavors-juicy,tender chicken bathed in a luxuriously creamy parmesan sauce,all tossed with perfectly al dente penne. The rich, cheesy sauce clings to every piece of pasta and slice of chicken, creating a comforting yet elegant meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Q: How do you achieve the perfect creaminess without the sauce becoming too heavy?
A: Balance is key! Using a combination of heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan ensures the sauce is silky and indulgent but not overly dense. A splash of chicken broth can lighten the mixture, while a hint of garlic and white wine adds depth without adding weight.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The flavors actually deepen if you prepare the sauce and chicken a few hours in advance. When ready to serve, gently reheat on low and toss with freshly cooked penne to keep that perfect al dente texture. Just avoid reheating the pasta for too long, or it may become mushy.
Q: What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
A: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both shine here. Breasts offer a lean, tender result, while thighs bring a little extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to pound the meat evenly for fast, uniform cooking.
Q: Are there any clever tweaks to add a unique twist?
A: certainly! Stirring in fresh herbs like basil or thyme elevates the freshness. For a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders. you could also swap penne for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences without sacrificing on taste.
Q: Is this dish suitable for a dinner party?
A: Without a doubt. It strikes the perfect balance between comforting home-cooking and gourmet sophistication. pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine,and your guests will be asking for seconds!
Q: What sides pair best with Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Penne?
A: Light,vibrant sides are the way to go. Think roasted asparagus,steamed broccoli,or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. These options cut through the richness of the dish and create a well-rounded dining experience.
Q: How can a beginner home cook master this recipe?
A: Focus on the basics: seasoning the chicken well,cooking the pasta just right,and slowly building the sauce’s flavor layers.Take your time with the sauce-gently simmer to let the parmesan melt into creamy perfection. The result is worth every minute!
Ready to indulge? This creamy parmesan chicken with penne perfection is your new go-to comfort food-deceptively simple, endlessly satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.Bon appétit!
To Wrap It Up
As the final forkful of creamy Parmesan chicken with perfectly cooked penne melts in your mouth, you realize this dish is more than just a meal-it’s a celebration of comfort and sophistication on a plate. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing guests with minimal effort, this harmonious blend of tender chicken, rich parmesan, and al dente pasta delivers a satisfying experience every time. So go ahead, indulge in this savory symphony and let each bite remind you that sometimes, the simplest ingredients come together to create perfection.
