Description
A creamy and satisfying pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich Parmesan Alfredo sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (for topping)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Penne: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until just tender, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is lightly golden and fully cooked through, around 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Create the Sauce Base: Pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine and create a smooth base.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Add the Velveeta and cream cheese, stirring until melted and fully blended into the sauce.
- Add More Cheese: Mix in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the sauce becomes thick and smooth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce and stir to coat.
- Mix in the Penne: Add the cooked penne and gently toss until every piece is covered in the sauce. Let it sit over low heat for a couple of minutes for the flavors to combine.
- Finish and Serve: Top with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat penne or adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: garlic chicken, penne pasta, alfredo sauce, family dinner, creamy pasta