Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of creamy cheese and savory chicken. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe stands out with its rich sauce and easy preparation. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night at home, this cheesy pasta dish will be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Comfort: The combination of Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, creamy sauce that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Great as a main dish or served alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness, even picky eaters will enjoy this meal.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Colander
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the penne pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and creating the creamy garlic butter sauce.
• Colander: Helps to drain the pasta quickly while keeping it from becoming mushy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 10 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Cheesy Goodness

• 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 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 the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning as needed until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Liquids

Pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes.

Step 6: Add Cheeses

Add Velveeta cubes and cream cheese. Stir until both have fully melted into a smooth sauce. Lower heat and mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and sauce thickens. If too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return cooked penne and chicken to skillet. Stir gently until everything is coated in the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Let it cook together for another minute or two.

Step 8: Serve

Finish with chopped parsley on top along with red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious dish!

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 850 per serving

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Serving Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This creamy dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

With Fresh Green Salad

• A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast. Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for balance.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional mozzarella or Parmesan on top before serving for an extra cheesy delight.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile. Consider adding basil or chives for variety.

Accompanied by Breadsticks

• Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for sopping up the cheesy sauce. You can make them from scratch or buy them pre-made.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the pasta well. Season them lightly and roast until tender.

With a Side of Garlic Bread

• Crisp garlic bread provides an irresistible crunch and complements the garlic butter flavor of the dish perfectly.

How to Perfect Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Perfecting this dish involves a few key techniques to ensure it turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality cheeses will significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
• Cook pasta al dente: This helps maintain texture and prevents the penne from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
• Gradually add cheese: Adding cheese slowly allows it to melt evenly into the sauce, creating a smooth consistency.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for the best flavor.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, ensuring a perfect coating on your penne.
• Let it simmer gently: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently helps develop flavors without burning or separating.

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

Complementing your Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great choices:

1. Garlic Bread

2. Crisp and buttery, this classic side pairs beautifully with rich pasta dishes.

3. Caesar Salad

4. A Caesar salad adds crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing that contrasts nicely with creamy pasta.

5. Steamed Broccoli

6. Bright green steamed broccoli offers a nutritious side that brings color and freshness to your plate.

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

8. The nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts enhances the overall taste while providing healthy fiber.

9. Caprese Salad

10. The combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze creates a refreshing balance to hearty pasta.

11. Grilled Asparagus

12. Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds elegance and complements the flavors of your chicken penne wonderfully.

13. Quinoa Salad

14. A quinoa salad packed with veggies can serve as a hearty yet healthy accompaniment rich in protein.

15. Stuffed Peppers

16. Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or grains provide an interesting textural contrast to creamy penne.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results.

• Using Overcooked Pasta: Always cook your penne until al dente. Overcooking results in mushy pasta that won’t hold up well in the dish.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your chicken adequately can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you coat the chicken evenly with spices before cooking.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve some pasta water can affect the sauce’s consistency. This starchy water is key for adjusting the sauce thickness.
• Cooking Chicken at High Heat: Cooking chicken too quickly over high heat can lead to dry pieces. Opt for medium-high heat and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
• Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Dumping all cheese at once can create lumps. Add cheese gradually, stirring well to ensure a creamy sauce.
• Skipping Garnishes: Neglecting fresh herbs or spices for garnish can minimize flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of parsley or red pepper flakes enhances both.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, adding reserved pasta water or broth to loosen if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce?

Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is a creamy pasta dish made with tender chicken, rich cheeses, and aromatic garlic butter.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer or add more cheese. You may also incorporate a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Substitute regular penne with gluten-free penne to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it great for quick weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce combines rich flavors and comforting textures that will please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or swapping out cheeses based on your preference. This dish is versatile and perfect for any occasion!