Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you simply want to indulge in comfort food. The creamy texture and savory flavors elevate the classic pasta dish to new heights, making it a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and a creamy cheese sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it alone or pair it with a salad for a complete dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family gatherings or dinner parties; everyone will love it!
• Customizable: Adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious recipe, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly, ensuring it’s cooked to perfection.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and creating the flavorful sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Help maintain ingredient ratios for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, adjust to taste
• tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 8 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• cup heavy cream
• cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• cup reserved pasta water, if needed to thin sauce

For Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh chopped parsley

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add chicken strips and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side or until golden-brown with crispy edges. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Stir until garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Mixture

Pour in heavy cream and stir until warm. Add Velveeta cubes; stir until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Add Cheeses

Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until sauce becomes thick and creamy. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add cooked penne into the skillet, stirring until fully coated in sauce. Simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 8: Final Touches

Return cooked chicken to pan or serve separately beside pasta. Spoon over any remaining garlic butter from chicken pan for extra flavor.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this creamy delight alongside juicy chicken!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Serving Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to present this delicious dish.

Family Style

• Serve the chicken and cheesy penne in a large bowl at the center of the table. This encourages sharing and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Individual Plates

• Plate the creamy penne first, then add slices of garlic butter chicken on top. Drizzle with extra sauce for a beautiful presentation.

Garnishing

• Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving. The vibrant green adds color and freshness to the dish.

Accompaniments

• Pair with warm garlic bread or a side salad to enhance the meal. These additions complement the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

To achieve the best results when making this creamy chicken dish, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality cheeses will greatly enhance the flavor profile of your dish.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce during preparation and adjust Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper as needed for personal preference.

• Control heat: Ensure you’re cooking the chicken over medium-high heat to achieve golden-brown edges without burning it.

• Reserve pasta water: Keep some pasta water handy; adding a little can help achieve your desired sauce consistency.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the dish to simmer after combining everything helps blend flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

Complement your main dish with these delightful side options that pair perfectly with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, warm garlic bread complements the creamy pasta and adds a crunchy texture.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to rich flavors.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli offers nutritional balance while its slight bitterness offsets creaminess.

4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and enhances flavor diversity.

5. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy dishes.

6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be an indulgent side that harmonizes well with cheesy flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking this creamy garlic butter chicken with cheesy penne and Parmesan sauce can be simple, but it’s easy to make a few mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken strips for too long can lead to dryness. Aim for 4-5 minutes per side until golden-brown.
• Not salting the pasta water: Skipping salt in the boiling water can result in bland pasta. Always season your water generously for better flavor.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheeses may not melt well, resulting in a lumpy sauce. Opt for good quality mozzarella and Parmesan for a smooth texture.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: This important step helps adjust the sauce’s consistency. Make sure to save some pasta water before draining!
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season chicken properly can lead to dull flavors. Don’t shy away from spices; they enhance the dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Keeps well for up to 2 months; label with date for tracking.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about preparing this dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

How can I customize Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce?

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Consider using different cheese varieties or seasonings based on your taste preferences.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great, feel free to substitute it with fusilli, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta if desired.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free cheese options.

What should I serve alongside this creamy garlic butter chicken?

A fresh salad or steamed vegetables pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the dish.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, ensure it’s no longer pink inside.

Final Thoughts

This creamy garlic butter chicken with cheesy penne and Parmesan sauce is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings to suit your palate. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a household favorite!