Parmesan Chicken Penne Recipe
Looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that will satisfy the entire family? Parmesan Chicken Penne is a delicious, creamy pasta dish with tender bites of seasoned chicken and a rich, cheesy sauce. It combines all the classic Italian flavors you love with the convenience of a one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or even a cozy weekend dinner.
How to Make Parmesan Chicken Penne
Follow these easy steps to make your Parmesan Chicken Penne turn out perfect every time.
1. Prep the Ingredients
Before you begin, gather and prep all your ingredients. This makes cooking smoother and helps you avoid missing anything important.
- Dice the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Mince the Garlic: Freshly minced garlic works best, as it will give a more robust flavor to your sauce.
- Grate the Parmesan: Use a microplane or fine grater for the Parmesan cheese so it melts smoothly into the sauce.
2. Sauté the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet and season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Base
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic.
4. Prepare the Sauce
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan: Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts into a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit more broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
5. Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
- Add Penne to the Skillet: Stir the uncooked penne pasta into the sauce, making sure it’s fully submerged. This one-pan method allows the pasta to absorb all the flavors from the sauce as it cooks.
- Simmer Until Tender: Cover the skillet and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finish with Chicken and Garnishes
- Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately with a little extra Parmesan on top.
Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Chicken Penne
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts smoother and enhances the flavor, while pre-grated cheese can often become grainy when melted.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to absorb the sauce even after you remove it from heat. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the sauce.
Adjust the Consistency
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little extra broth or cream until you reach your preferred consistency. If you want a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of butter just before serving.
Pairing Ideas for Parmesan Chicken Penne
To complete your meal, consider these side dishes that complement the creamy flavors of Parmesan Chicken Penne.
Caesar Salad
A fresh Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing is a classic side that pairs well with the richness of this pasta dish.
Garlic Bread
Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds a delightful crunch to the meal.
Steamed Vegetables
Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make a nutritious and colorful addition to the plate, balancing out the creaminess of the pasta.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Roasted tomatoes add a sweet, tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the Parmesan sauce, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storing
- Cool Completely: Allow the pasta to cool before storing it.
- Airtight Container: Place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing (Optional)
Parmesan Chicken Penne can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Parmesan Chicken Penne is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy flavors that’s incredibly satisfying and easy to make. With just one pan and a few key ingredients, you can have a comforting, Italian-inspired meal on the table in no time. This recipe not only saves you from the hassle of multiple dishes but also brings the family together around a warm and delicious plate of pasta. So next time you’re in the mood for comfort food, give this Parmesan Chicken Penne a try—it’s bound to become a household favorite!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.
2. Can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan. You can also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
3. What can I use instead of Parmesan?
If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative that will give you a similar savory flavor.
4. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can boost the nutritional value and flavor of the pasta.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free version. The other ingredients should naturally be gluten-free, but always double-check labels if you have dietary restrictions.
Parmesan Chicken Penne Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz penne pasta
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. - Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
Add the cooked penne pasta, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.