Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is a rich, cozy dinner that delivers bold garlic flavor, juicy seared chicken, and tender penne tossed in a buttery parmesan cream sauce. It’s easy enough for a weeknight and satisfying enough to feel like a weekend indulgence. Every bite is full of cheesy, herby goodness—perfect for pasta lovers and garlic fans alike.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
12 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
3. Sear chicken thighs for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
5. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a bit of butter with the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Stir in parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water, whisking until smooth and creamy.
8. Add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Toss cooked penne into the sauce, stirring until well coated.
10. Return chicken to the skillet and nestle into the pasta.
11. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan.
12. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
For best results, use freshly grated parmesan—it melts more smoothly into the sauce.
A splash of pasta water is key for a silky, emulsified sauce—don’t skip it!
Leftovers reheat best with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx.)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, penne pasta with chicken