Short Description
This is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta smothered in a decadent cheddar Parmesan garlic butter cream sauce. It’s quick to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. To prevent sticking, you can toss the cooked pasta with a little olive oil.
Step 2: Season the chicken chunks generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure each piece is evenly coated to maximize flavor.
Step 3: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 6: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that cheeses can be quite salty, so adjust accordingly.
Step 8: Add the cooked penne pasta and cooked chicken to the creamy cheese sauce. Toss gently to ensure that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 9: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta is a winner because it’s incredibly flavorful and satisfying. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and rich cheeses, coats every strand of pasta and piece of chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s also a relatively quick and easy meal to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe is versatile, and you can easily customize it with additional vegetables or different types of cheese to suit your preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
- A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- To save time, you can use pre-shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. However, freshly grated cheese tends to melt more smoothly.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of sharp cheddar and mild cheddar cheese.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.
- To add a bit of heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 650-750
- Protein: 40-45g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion:
This Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Penne Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with other types of pasta such as rotini, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.
- Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Absolutely! Adding vegetables can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
- Is it possible to make this recipe lighter?
- Yes, you can reduce the fat content by using light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also use reduced-fat cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Additionally, using whole wheat pasta will add fiber.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and then combine them with the cooked pasta just before serving. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming too soggy.
- What can I serve with this dish if I don’t want bread?
- If you’re looking for a lighter side dish, consider serving this pasta with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.
