When I’m looking for a meal that feels like a special treat but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta is my go-to. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, everything you want when you want dinner that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull together.
I remember the first time I made this recipe on a hectic weeknight. The kitchen was buzzing, but I wanted something that would satisfy everyone’s taste buds and fill up hungry tummies fast. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is silky smooth, with just the right amount of cheese melting into every twist of penne pasta. The tender chicken bites add heartiness without overpowering the delicate sauce. And the subtle kick from a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional but recommended) gives it just a little extra oomph.
This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you crave a cozy, cheesy pasta that brings everyone to the table. Plus, it’s easy to customize and reheats beautifully for leftovers, a total win in my book.
Essential Elements and Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need to nail this recipe:
- Large pot: For boiling your penne pasta to that perfect al dente texture. Don’t skip salting the water, it’s the first seasoning step.
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan: You’ll cook the chicken and make the sauce here, so a nice heavy pan is ideal for even heat.
- Whisk: Essential for making a lump-free roux and silky sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring the chicken and pasta without breaking the tender bites.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To keep your seasoning and sauce ingredients balanced.
Having these tools ready will make your cooking smooth and enjoyable.
What Makes This Recipe Work
This recipe shines because it balances creamy, cheesy richness with the light, fresh flavors of garlic and herbs:
- Tender, seasoned chicken: The chicken breasts are cut into bite-sized pieces and seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic powder, creating juicy morsels that soak up the sauce perfectly. Searing them just right adds flavor and texture.
- Garlic butter base: Butter and fresh garlic create a fragrant, flavorful foundation for the sauce that warms the senses and prepares your palate.
- Roux-thickened sauce: Whisking flour into melted butter before slowly adding milk ensures the sauce is thick and velvety without lumps.
- Cheese trio: Parmesan brings a sharp, nutty flavor while mozzarella melts into gooey, creamy goodness. Together, they create a luscious sauce that clings to every piece of penne.
- Penne pasta: The ridged, tube-shaped pasta grabs onto the sauce’s every bit, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
The combination of these elements creates a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a treat but comes together with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half (for a richer sauce)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes, depending on your package. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside, keeping it warm.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Melt the butter, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a light roux.
Step 5: Slowly pour in the milk or half-and-half while whisking continuously to keep the sauce smooth. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and ¾ cup of the shredded mozzarella. Mix until the cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Add red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the cheesy sauce.
Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup mozzarella over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit on low heat for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into gooey ribbons.
Step 9: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite.
Easy Variations to Try
One of the best things about this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cheesy penne is how you can easily tweak it to suit your mood or what’s in your fridge.
- Veggie boost: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes when you cook the garlic. These add a fresh pop of flavor and color without overpowering the sauce.
- Swap the protein: Want something different? Shrimp or turkey breast work wonderfully here. For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken and add extra mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas.
- Cheese swap: While Parmesan and mozzarella are perfect, feel free to add some fontina or provolone for a different cheese vibe. A little sharp cheddar can also add a nice bite if you want something bolder.
- Heat it up: If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes in the sauce or season the chicken with Cajun seasoning for a smoky kick.
- Gluten-free: Swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend in your roux to keep it safe and just as delicious.
These swaps keep the dish interesting and personalized while still giving you that luscious, creamy comfort you crave.
How to Serve
This dish is satisfying on its own, but here are some simple ways to round out your meal:
- A light green salad with a bright vinaigrette helps balance all that richness and adds freshness to your plate.
- Some garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
- Steamed or roasted green beans, broccoli, or asparagus add a nice crunch and a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs, parsley, or basil adds just the right pop of color and a touch of brightness.
For drinks, I like to keep it simple: sparkling water with lemon or iced tea works beautifully to cleanse the palate between bites.
Recipe Tips
- Take your time browning the chicken. A good sear adds flavor and texture that really elevate this dish.
- Keep a close eye on the garlic. It cooks quickly and burns easily, so stir frequently to keep it golden and fragrant.
- Whisk constantly when making the roux and adding milk to keep your sauce silky smooth.
- Save some pasta water. If your sauce feels too thick, a splash of that starchy water can loosen it without diluting the flavor.
- Reheat leftovers gently on the stove with a little milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.
- If you’re cooking for kids or picky eaters, set aside some plain pasta before mixing everything together.
Cooking Notes
- Use a heavy skillet or sauté pan to ensure even heat and prevent burning.
- Keep your sauce at a gentle simmer; too hot and it might curdle.
- Add salt at the end, as cheese is already salty. Taste as you go.
- Mince garlic finely for the best even flavor distribution.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: About 730
- Protein: Approximately 45 grams
- Sodium: Around 850 mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead and reheat it?
Yes! I actually love making this dish ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, warm it gently on the stove with a little splash of milk or broth to bring back that creamy texture. It reheats beautifully without drying out.
What can I substitute for whole milk if I don’t have it?
No problem if you don’t have whole milk. I often use half-and-half or even a mix of milk and cream. The sauce might be a little thinner, but it’s still delicious and creamy. You can also try a dairy-free milk like oat milk for a lighter twist, just keep the seasoning balanced.
Can I use something other than chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe is pretty flexible. Shrimp or turkey breast work great if you want a change. For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas for some protein. It’s all about making it your own.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. The creamy cheese sauce tends to be a big hit with kids. If you’re worried about spice, you can skip the garlic powder or red pepper flakes. It’s mild but flavorful enough to please even picky eaters.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne has become one of those recipes I reach for time and time again. It’s comforting, easy to make, and feels special enough to serve for family dinners or when friends come over. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in such a satisfying way that it really hits all the right notes.
What I love most is how simple it is to customize. Whether you add a handful of spinach, swap chicken for shrimp, or turn up the heat a notch, it adapts beautifully without losing that comforting, cheesy goodness.
If you want a dinner that feels indulgent but comes together quickly, this recipe is a winner. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a great way to use pantry staples, and makes for delicious leftovers too.
Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a staple in your home as it has in mine, creamy and absolutely delicious.
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Penne Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half (for a richer sauce)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes, depending on your package. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside, keeping it warm.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet. Melt the butter, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a light roux.
Step 5: Slowly pour in the milk or half-and-half while whisking continuously to keep the sauce smooth. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and ¾ cup of the shredded mozzarella. Mix until the cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Add red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the cheesy sauce.
Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup mozzarella over the top of the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit on low heat for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into gooey ribbons.
Step 9: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 730
- Sodium: 850
- Protein: 45