Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or family dinners. Juicy seasoned chicken is cooked until golden, then coated in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce that blends beautifully with tender penne pasta and melted cheese. Every bite is packed with creamy, savory flavor that feels like a restaurant quality meal made right at home.

This recipe comes together in less than an hour using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It is filling, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Pair it with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients List

Recipe Information

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This pasta dish is everything you want in a comforting homemade meal. The chicken stays tender and juicy while the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce coats every piece of pasta perfectly. The mozzarella adds an extra cheesy finish that makes every bite rich and satisfying. It is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Since everything comes together with everyday ingredients, it is an easy recipe you will find yourself making again and again.

Step By Step Instructions

Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while preparing the sauce.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until everything is well combined.

Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in the Italian seasoning and allow the sauce to simmer gently for several minutes.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta and gently toss until the pasta is evenly covered.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and stir until melted into the sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Variations To Try

This recipe can easily be customized to suit your family’s preferences. Add fresh spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or sun dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Replace the chicken with shrimp or Italian sausage for a delicious variation. You can also use rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine instead of penne if that is what you have available. For a little heat, stir in crushed red pepper flakes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta pairs wonderfully with warm garlic bread, homemade breadsticks, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley just before serving adds even more flavor and a beautiful finishing touch.

Freezing Or Storing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. Although the dish can be frozen for up to 2 months, the cream sauce may change slightly in texture after thawing.

Recipe Notes

For the smoothest sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre shredded cheese. Cook the pasta just until al dente because it will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the hot sauce. Avoid boiling the cream sauce after adding the cheese to prevent it from separating. Garnish with fresh parsley for the best color and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes. Boneless skinless chicken thighs work very well and remain extra juicy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the recipe up to one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to reheat.

What other cheeses can I use?

Cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Asiago cheese can be added for a different flavor.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Half and half is a better substitute.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Allow the sauce to simmer for a few extra minutes or stir in a little extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is a rich, comforting dinner that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a silky Parmesan cream sauce into one irresistible meal. It is quick enough for busy evenings, easy to customize, and always a hit with family and friends. Once you try this recipe, it is sure to earn a permanent place in your dinner rotation.

Recipe Card

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Recipe by Mian waqar

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

630

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 12 ounces penne pasta

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 half teaspoon onion powder

• 1 half teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

• Cook the penne pasta until al dente and drain.
• Season and cook the chicken until golden.
• Sauté the garlic in butter.
• Add the broth and heavy cream.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese and seasonings.
• Return the chicken to the skillet.
• Add the cooked pasta and toss well.
• Stir in the mozzarella until melted.
• Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Recipe Video

Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the creamiest sauce and avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese to maintain a smooth, velvety texture.