Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

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When it comes to comfort food, nothing satisfies quite like tender, juicy chicken nestled next to a mountain of cheesy, creamy pasta. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is an irresistible weeknight dinner that’s both easy to prepare and indulgently flavorful. Picture this: perfectly seared chicken with golden, crispy edges paired with rich, parmesan-coated penne pasta that melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that turns any dinner into a cozy, crave-worthy occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every time. The garlic-infused cream sauce clings to the pasta just right, while the seared chicken soaks up all those buttery, herby notes. It’s a recipe made for second helpings—and maybe even thirds.

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What Makes the Garlic Parmesan Sauce So Good?

The heart of this recipe lies in the sauce. It’s a luscious mix of cream, butter, garlic, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. The garlic brings warmth and depth, while the parmesan creates a velvety texture that clings to each penne tube. The secret? A touch of pasta water to emulsify everything into a glossy, spoon-coating dream. Don’t skip the fresh parsley at the end—it brightens the richness beautifully.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

• Chicken Thighs – Boneless, skinless thighs are the juicy, flavorful hero here. They crisp up beautifully while staying moist.
• Olive Oil and Butter – A classic combo for searing the chicken and creating a rich base for the sauce.
• Fresh Garlic – Essential for infusing the cream sauce with bold, savory flavor.
• Heavy Cream – The backbone of the sauce. It creates that luxurious, creamy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for maximum melt and flavor.
• Penne Pasta – Perfectly shaped to hold all that cheesy goodness in every bite.
• Parsley – Adds a pop of freshness to balance the creaminess.
• Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning – Enhances every element of the dish with simple, well-balanced seasoning.

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How To Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Start by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a mix of olive oil and butter. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet and sear for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until the exterior is golden brown and the inside is fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

While the chicken is searing, boil your penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid helps bind the sauce later.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add a little more butter and minced garlic, sautéing just until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it gently simmer for a few minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Finish the Sauce

Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Add more pasta water if needed for desired thickness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Toss Pasta and Plate the Dish

Add the cooked penne into the skillet and stir to coat every noodle with the garlic parmesan sauce. Reintroduce the seared chicken on top. Garnish with chopped parsley and more grated parmesan. Serve warm and enjoy!

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta

This hearty dish is best served fresh from the skillet while the sauce is still velvety and warm. Plate the pasta first and top with slices of golden chicken for a picture-perfect presentation. A sprinkle of extra parmesan and parsley right before serving gives it that restaurant-quality finish.

Pair it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables to add freshness and color to the plate. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty sourdough is the perfect vehicle to mop up any leftover sauce.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce’s creamy consistency. For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

Freezing is possible, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. If you do freeze it, store in individual portions and consume within 1 month.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Look for a golden crust on the outside and no pink in the center.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely. Chicken breasts work just as well, though they can be slightly drier. Pound them to an even thickness for more even cooking.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of cream cheese. Just note the sauce may not be quite as rich.

Is fresh parmesan necessary?

Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded, but in a pinch, pre-grated can work. Just watch for added fillers that can affect texture.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli would be delicious additions stirred into the pasta.

How can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle heat, or serve with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

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Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta left you wanting more, you’re in luck! Check out these other comforting and creative pasta recipes that take dinnertime up a notch:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a smooth, ricotta-kissed twist.
• Sweet Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta brings bold sweet-and-savory flavor.
• One Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta is perfect when you’re craving a kick.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for a veggie-packed version.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine if you love citrusy flair.

Each one offers a unique spin while keeping things creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.

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Tried this recipe at home? Let me know how it turned out in the comments! Did you go classic or add a twist—like roasted veggies or a spicy drizzle? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Let’s make every meal something to look forward to.

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