Description
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken penne is the perfect cozy meal for busy nights or family dinners. Tender seared chicken, al dente penne, and a rich buttery herb cream sauce come together in just 30 minutes. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make—all in one skillet.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil (plus more for garnish)
Optional: 2 oz cream cheese for extra richness
Optional: red pepper flakes or lemon zest for brightness
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Season chicken with garlic powder, thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips in a single layer and sear for 6–7 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in heavy cream, then stir in Parmesan and optional cream cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Add fresh parsley or basil and simmer the sauce for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce and simmer for another 1–2 minutes.
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Garnish with additional herbs, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Grating fresh Parmesan enhances the sauce’s creaminess and flavor. If reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to maintain texture. Feel free to customize the dish with sautéed vegetables or substitute the chicken with shrimp or sausage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes