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 brings together tender chicken in a rich, buttery sauce with cheesy penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any time you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The creamy texture and savory flavors make it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter, cream, and cheeses creates an irresistible sauce that elevates the chicken and pasta.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe by adding vegetables or swapping out the cheese to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
• One-Pan Wonder: With most ingredients cooked in one skillet, cleanup is quick and easy.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta efficiently.
• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Colander: Useful for draining the pasta quickly without making a mess.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.

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
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 8 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

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

For Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

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

Step 1: Cook the Penne 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 1 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side or until golden-brown with crispy edges and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

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

Step 5: Make It Creamy

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

Step 6: Add Cheese

Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses; continue stirring until thickened. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Combine Pasta

Stir in cooked penne until fully coated in sauce. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes so flavors blend well.

Step 8: Serve

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

Step 9: Garnish

Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this creamy delight alongside juicy golden 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 meal experience. Pair it with the right accompaniments to enhance the flavors and presentation.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for a crunchy side.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic complements the cheesy pasta perfectly.

Create a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a creamy dressing pairs well with rich chicken and pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the meal.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up extra sauce from your plate.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls provide a light touch and are excellent for mopping up delicious sauces.

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

Perfecting this dish requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your meal shines.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality cheeses enhance flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; adjusting Cajun seasoning can make a big difference in spice levels.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Aim for juicy chicken by cooking until just golden-brown; avoid dryness by ensuring it’s cooked through but not overdone.
• Reserve Pasta Water Wisely: This starchy water can help adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
• Mix Cheeses Well: Stir vigorously while adding cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce without clumps.
• Experiment with Garnishes: Try adding crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.

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

Complementing your main dish with appropriate sides can elevate your meal. Below are some ideal pairings.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the cheesy pasta.
2. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the chicken.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the creamy elements of your main dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious side that’s also filling.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory flavors beautifully; grill or boil for best results.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthy tones and textures that harmonize well with your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for golden-brown pieces cooked through, usually about 4-5 minutes per side.
• Ignoring Pasta Timing: If you overcook the penne, it will become mushy. Follow the package directions closely to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
• Skipping the Reserved Pasta Water: This water is essential for adjusting the sauce’s consistency. Always reserve some before draining the pasta to keep your sauce creamy and smooth.
• Not Tasting Seasonings: Each ingredient has its flavor profile. Taste as you go, especially when seasoning the chicken and sauce, to ensure it meets your preference.
• Rushing the Sauce Preparation: Allow the sauce to simmer properly so that flavors meld beautifully. A rushed sauce can lack depth and richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary. Stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute penne with any pasta shape like fusilli or rotini. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase spice levels, add more Cajun seasoning or include chopped fresh chili peppers while cooking the chicken.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce?

Certainly! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy pasta dish, enhancing your meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Cheesy Penne and Parmesan Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to cheese lovers everywhere. Its versatility allows for customization; feel free to experiment with different proteins or add vegetables! Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.